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Rudolph of Rosenfeldt; 

OR, 

THE LEAVEN OF THE REFORMATION. 


A Story of the Times of William the Silent 


BY 


y 

JOHN W. SPEAR. • 

Author of “Out of the Toils,” and “Grach Winslow.” 



\Y copyright 

AUG S 1890 ; 


PHILADELPHIA : 


THE AMERICAN SUNDAY-SCHOOL UNION, 

1122 Chestnut Street, 

NEW YORK: 8 & lo Bible House. 
[Copyright, 1890, by The American Sunday-School Union.] 



CONTENTS, 


Chapter. Page. 

INTRODUCTION 5 

I. NOBLES IN COUNCIL 11 

II. RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT ... 23 

III. CONFLICTING CREEDS 35 

IV. WELDED HEARTS 46 

V. A LOYAL PAPIST 55 

VI. A NEW FRIEND 70 

VII. THE BENEDICTINE 85 

VIII. A WELL-SHRIVEN DAMSEL . . . 102 

IX. A TIMELY DISCOVERY .... 114 

X. THE CONTACT 126 

XI. A BRACE OF TRUSTED ADVISERS . 136 

XII. THE MONK AND THE COUNTESS . 147 

XIII. A TEST .OF FAITH 161 

XIV. HOURS OF SUSPENSE 177 

XV. A STRANGE FREAK OF FORTUNE . 188 

XVI. BACK TO COBLENTZ 199 

XVII. THE VEHMGERICHTE 211 

XVIII. THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ 222 

XIX. THE RECLUSE OF THE BROCKEN . 238 

( 3 ) 


4 


CONTENTS. 


XX. THE BAEON FOILED 255 

XXI. AN INTERVIEW ABRUPTLY ENDED 267 

XXII. THE LEAVEN OF THE REFORMATION 278 

XXIII. A PURPOSE AND A PLOT . . . 288 

XXIV. A STARTLING DISCLOSURE . . . 302 

XXV. HOW TO OBTAIN WITNESSES . . 313 

XXVI. A STRUGGLE FOR A LIFE . . . .321 

XXVII. BREDERODE AS A COUNSELOR . . 333 

XXVIII. VARIED EXPERIENCES 343 

XXIX. THE PURSUER PURSUED .... 354 

XXX. FOUND AND LOST 369 

XXXI. FATHER VOLKMER VISITS LEYDEN 380 
XXXII. AFFAIRS IN VALENCIENNES AND 

ANTWERP 390 

XXXIII. A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS 401 


INTRODUCTION. 



‘HE history of the Netherlands during the regency 


1 of Margaret of Parma, and the reign of Philip 
II. of Spain, is one crowded with exciting events. 
Any story, therefore, based upon the records of that 
period, must necessarily include something of the 
sterner realities of social, religious and political life. 
That the jealousy, exclusiveness, and thirst for domi- 
nation on the part of the Romish Church, on the one 
hand, and the influence of the Reformation, and the 
love of liberty which characterized the dwellers of 
the Low Countries, on the other, were the forces 
which begat and nursed those stirring scenes of perse- 
cution and blood, no one will deny. While much, 
very much more, well calculated to arouse the pas- 
sions and thrill the soul, might, with a fuller render- 
ing of the truth, have been introduced in the follow- 
ing pages, enough of the exciting has, doubtless, been 
furnished to indicate the animus of the disturbing 
factors and the tendency of the advanced thought of 
the period. Less than what is given would have 


( 5 ) 


6 


INTRODUCTION. 


failed to adapt the spirit of the story to the times. As 
presented, it is the result of no little study and re- 
search, not only as regards historical data, but, also, 
concerning the manners, customs, and style of address 
then prevalent. It is true that several features of the 
narrative — mainly that of the Vehmgerichte — involve 
methods, which, if not then entirely obsolete, had 
become greatly circumscribed in their operations. 
But their adaptability to the conditions under which 
they are employed will be manifest to the unpreju- 
diced and careful reader, since they disclose the 
subtlety and power of the Hierarchy, as it then 
existed, and portray the extreme and merciless 
judicial measures resorted to in mediaeval times. 

In the following pages, the author disclaims any 
intention to inveigh against or reflect upon the Latin 
Church, whatever its supposed defects, as constituted 
at the present day. Nor must it be understood from 
anything the characters herein introduced may be 
made to assert, that he fails to recognize and com- 
mend the virtues of many of its communicants whose 
names have enriched its history from the earliest 
period of its existence. The aim has been to render 
a truthful portraiture, portions of the data for which 
have been furnished by chroniclers whose loyalty to 


INTROD UCTION. 


7 


the Church was most pronounced, and who wit- 
nessed many of the scenes to which their statements 
refer. 

The following brief note gives the historical setting 


of the period. 


THE AUTHOR. 



iHILIP II. was upon the throne of Spain. Eleven 


1 years had rolled away since his father, Charles 
V. abdicated in his favor. He was now monarch of 
the mightiest realm of the earth, notwithstanding the 
German branch of Charles’ dominions had passed 
into the hands of his brother, Ferdinand I. This 
transfer of power occurred during one of the most im- 
portant eras the world has ever known. The moral 
darkness of superstition and error, which for a 
thousand years had enveloped human hearts, was 
struggling, as it were, to resist the encroachments of 
light and truth. The sun of the Reformation had 
arisen. Its divergent beams were burning their way 
on every hand, awakening consciences, unearthing 
falsehood, exposing corruptions, and illuminating the 
minds and warming the hearts of those who had 
hitherto been trammeled by the bigots’ chains and 
burdened with the heavy weights of soul-deluding 
dogmas and rites. The day to which Wycliffe had 
been as the morning star and Huss as the dawn, had 
been gloriously ushered in by Luther and his coadju- 
tors. All Europe was feeling the influence. The 
voice of the Reformer and the songs of emancipated 


8 


INTRODUCTION. 


souls rang through her valleys and echoed from her 
mountains until the Seine replied to the Danube and 
the Thames to the Rhine. 

But this mighty transitional process was the prolific 
cause of malignant and persistent strife. It was 
scarcely possible that *^Holy Mother Church/’ the 
foundations of whose ethical system were laid deep in 
the darkness of past centuries, and whose potent 
sceptre held the crowned heads of the continent to 
its footstool, should quietly submit to such a disastrous 
invasion of her realm. She had so long fulminated 
her edicts and dominated hearts and homes, dynasties 
and nations from the banks of the Tiber, that the life- 
blood of the heretic, or his utter recantation could 
alone meet her requirements when her dogmas were 
questioned and her polity assailed. Hence, the In- 
quisition, the guillotine, the gibbet, the block, the 
stake, and the rack, like the wine-press at the vintage 
time, were the constant fountains of crimson streams. 

But the general story need not be recapitulated 
here. It is written with human gore on every square 
mile of European soil. The annals of the historian 
and the song of the bard have voiced it far as the rays 
of knowledge have transmitted their light, and he 
who runs may read.” 

Rome, at the period which this narrative portrays, 
was well equipped — though not sufficiently so, at all 
points — to combat the opposition that confronted her. 
She had a host of most loyal devotees in commanding 
positions, capable of originating and operating any 
methods, however cruel or sanguinary, that promised 


INTROD UCTIGN. 


9 


the subversion of her Protestant foes. Prominent 
among these were Philip II. of Spain, the duke of 
Alva, Catherine de* Medici, regent of France, and 
Margaret of Parma who, when Philip transferred his 
royal residence from Brussels to Madrid, was consti- 
tuted regent of the Netherlands. She was the half- 
sister of the Spanish king, and with him and Alva was 
closely allied to those stirring and bloody events 
which, after the lapse of years, culminated in the for- 
mation of the Dutch Republic. It is with a view to 
illustrating some of the incipient scenes of this terri- 
ble and protracted struggle, that this story is written. 
While many easily recognized historical characters 
and circumstances are introduced, the imagination 
furnishes much in respect to details, but always within 
the domain of reason and probability, based upon the 
events known to have occurred. 



RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


CHAPTER I. 

NOBLES IN COUNCIL. 

N the third of October, 1566, five persons of 



prominence met at Dendermonde, seventeen 
miles north of the city of Brussels. They had come 
together to consult regarding matters of expediency. 
A crisis in the affairs of the Low Countries was 
approaching. Margaret had for some time had the 
principal cities garrisoned with hireling soldiery, but 
now, pursuant to Philip’s orders, the duke of Alva was 
mustering a formidable army beyond the Pyrenees for 
the sole purpose of defeating the Dutch in their efforts 
to free themselves from the galling yoke of Rome. 
One of two courses, therefore, must soon be decided 
upon by the Protestants — abject submission, or more 
thorough preparation for resisting the intended inva- 
sion of the duke. 

The individuals composing the conference were 
William, prince of Orange, known, also, in history as 
William the Silent ; his brother Louis of Nassau ; 
counts Egmont and Horn; and Hoogstraaten, who 
seems to have been, like Louis, a member of the 


(”) 


12 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


famous Beggar’s League,” which, not long previous 
to this event, had been dissolved ; or, if it still had 
an existence, was not nearly so demonstrative as it 
formerly had been. During the early part of the inter- 
view, an intercepted letter was produced and read. It 
purported to be from the Spanish envoy at Paris to 
Margaret, the regent, and disclosed an intention on 
the part of Philip to use Orange, Egmont, and Horn 
for the furtherance of his own schemes, and then to 
destroy them. This was indeed news of a startling 
character. The persons named had been such loyal 
adherents of the king, especially as regarded strictly 
political matters, that it was difficult to accept the 
announcement as truth. Nevertheless, most of them 
were disposed so to receive it. 

^‘Verily, here is a strange condition of things, if 
we are pleased to take this missive as it reads,” 
observed Hodgstraaten. ‘‘You, noble prince, and 
you, my illustrious count Egmont, and you, my no 
less worthy count Horn, are evidently in the meshes. 
After having served the king, and his father before 
him, with most commendable honesty and sagacity, it 
is ill-merited payment you are likely to receive for 
your valuable services.” 

‘*What think you, Egmont?” asked Orange. 
“ Does the writing commend itself to your credulity ? ” 
am loth to accept it as truthful. Indeed, I do 
not. It is so unlike his majesty’s past demeanor 
towards us that it would, I am inclined to think, savor 
of cruelty towards him for us to entertain any degree 


NOBLES IN COUNCIL, 


13 

of faith therein,” said Egmont, after brief considera- 
tion. 

Ah, my dear Egmont, you are loyalty itself,” 
responded Hoogstraaten, quickly. We might well 
expect such a disclaimer from one whom his sovereign 
so highly esteems — as appearances go — that he 
deigned to make him the favorite par excellence of his 
court — loading him with such weighty honors as to 
cause him to forget the object which hurried him 
thither. You will not soon recover from your visit of 
last year to the Spanish abode of royalty, my good 
count. Am I not right, noble Horn ? ” 

<< Faith, you are too shrewd a friend of the count 
to thrust an accusation beyond your teeth that he is 
a toad willing to be trodden beneath the foot of a 
king. I take it, he fairly rates your essay at pleas- 
antry,” was Horn’s evasive reply. He was not will- 
ing to endanger the harmony of feeling which he 
hoped would characterize the interview, by regarding 
the satire in a serious light, or by giving it the 
slightest endorsement. Yet each one present knew 
that Egmont had, to a great degree, betrayed the 
confidence reposed in him when sent by a council of 
nobles, early in the preceding year, to the court of 
Spain for the purpose of securing from Philip con- 
cessions to the Netherland provinces. 

I think I understand the impelling cause of this 
jest,” observed Louis, instantly comprehending Horn’s 
thought. *‘My very good friend Hoogstraaten has 
been so long and so closely allied to Brederode, whose 
reckless humor and dashing boldness have become 


14 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


famous, that he is infected with the same disease, 
minus its poison, and, hence, these symptoms occa- 
sionally reveal themselves.” 

Truly, gentlemen,” said Orange, with a smile, 

you are reaping in a barren field. If I mistake not, 
Egmont is entirely undisturbed by the casual refer- 
ence, and you are therefore, framing apologies for 
that which has not been accomplished, namely, giv- 
ing offence to the subject of the remark.” 

Just the language one might expect from you, 
noble Orange,” observed Egmont, looking his satis- 
faction. ‘‘I shall survive this brilliant flash of wit 
from such an apt scholar of Brederode, and hope he 
will live to rehearse the lessons he has received in 
happier times than these.” 

‘‘ Spoken like our worthy count,” said Louis, with 
energy. 

‘‘Well, well, the world will yet know how unim- 
portant Hobgstraaten is to this generation,” came 
from Hobgstraaten himself. “ That brief observation 
of mine might have shaken half of Europe under 
other circumstances.” 

“ And the other half, too, had not the speaker and 
his subject such mutual appreciation of their friend- 
ship,” said count Horn. “ Come, friend Hobg- 
straaten, you are the prince’s estimable colleague, 
and can not, therefore, be without honor and influ- 
ence.” 

“ Thanks, count,” responded Orange, bowing 
slightly. “But, good seigniors, let us consider this 
singular document which has so opportunely come to 


NOBLES IN COUNCIL. 15 

our hands. It may help shape our thoughts during 
this interview.” 

Do you hold it as of any worth, prince? ” asked 
Egmont. 

In good faith, while I have not fully embraced it 
as absolute truth, things have transpired in connection 
with our royal master which clearly indicate that he 
is not destitute of either duplicity or ingratitude.” 

* ‘ There, I think, you may mistake him, my worthy 
Orange,” said Egmont, thoughtfully. “You should 
credit seeming discords in his conduct to his zeal for 
the Church, and his apparent ingratitude to the feel- 
ing — which he, doubtless entertains — that they who, 
at their best, but perform their bounden duties, are 
not entitled to thanks from any source.” 

“ Ah, my dear count, you cannot be blind to the 
fact that this king of ours operates with the fetters of 
the despot, the lash of the bigot, and the fire of the 
inquisitor. I deem him capable of masking a hideous 
purpose by a winsome smile, and of planning the 
destruction of an acknowledged friend while he revels 
with and prays for him. The most venomous ser- 
pents have the fairest skins.” 

“ You paint with the dunnest hues, noble prince,” 
said Egmont, who, though he knew that the tenure 
of belief with which Orange held to the Church was 
never very strong, was scarcely expecting the 
announcement of so bold an opinion touching one of 
her most loyal sons. “ Our Lady can hardly fail to 
rank you as disreputable for inveighing so rancor- 


l6 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDF 

ously against the faith as represented by our liege 
lord.” 

It is not the faith, nor even the rites of the 
Church — albeit I wash my hands and, I trust, my 
heart of them — of which I now directly complain. 
But, look you, my count, where we are to-day ? Far 
better had it been for us had Charles clung to the 
throne with even the oppressive policy he himself 
pursued ; for while we would have had the obnoxious 
edicts, as we do now, we would have escaped the 
Inquisition with its multiplied minions and retainers. 

** Besides, here is Alva, who is the very quintessence 
of heartlessness, as well as an accomplished soldier, 
about to launch his Spanish hordes upon the already 
overburdened provinces, and God only knows what 
additional miseries the movement will entail. So, 
you see, count, that Philip *is no whit inclined to 
redress wrongs, or regard the consciences of his sub- 
jects. He and Rome are to remain uppermost, who- 
ever else goes down. We, who are the machines of 
his will and not the foster children of.his love, may 
not expect to fare better than the country at large. 
I take it, this letter is but the mirror of his designs 
concerning us.” 

agree with you, worthy prince,” said count 

Horn. 

‘‘And I,” chorused Louis of Nassau. 

“And I,” added Hoogstraaten, after a moment’s 
pause, “though there is much to regret in the 
acknowledgment. ’ ’ 

“There is no peradventure regarding that,” said 


NOBLES IN COUNCIL. 17 

William. “I would that we might confide in our 
king as we do in each other.” 

‘‘Stay, good seigniors!” cried Egmont, “your 
haste is unwarrantable. Here is a document just to 
hand, purporting certain things, of the verity of 
which we have not the slightest proof ; and yet it is 
taken at its face value, and discussed as if it were a 
death warrant written with blood, directly from our 
sovereign’s pen. In sooth, we would give a like 
missive from a mendicant more consideration. For 
one, I cannot hold his majesty in such light esteem. 
Nor will either of you, my noble companions, after 
due deliberation, if I mistake not.” 

“My dear Egmont,” replied Orange, in a firm and 
kindly tone, “ let me assure you that there is not as 
much haste in this matter as you deem. Speaking 
for myself, I will say that the letter is the proof rather 
than the basis of a view I have for months enter- 
tained.” 

“A view — a mere impression — is not tangible evi- 
dence, you must admit, prince,” • said the count. 
“ There should be facts, and unquestionable ones, too, 
that would prompt to such positive disbelief in our 
sovereign’s integrity.” 

“Such facts might be produced, noble count, 
should expediency demand it,” replied William. “I 
have that, on the score of information, which con- 
vinces my own mind, though you, it might be, would 
require additional testimony to harmonize your feel- 
ings with mine. Time, however, will sift the false 
from the true. And now, since we are not in accord 
2 


i8 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


touching this bit of paper, shall we not address our- 
selves to a consideration of the impending crisis? 
The provinces are looking to us for a solution of the 
confronting problem, and for the betterment of their 
condition. How think you, seigniors ; shall we meet 
Alva as soldiers, with legions behind us, or retire 
peacefully to our homes ? ” 

The last would argue fealty to our king,” sug- 
gested Egmont. 

And treason to liberty,” observed Hoogstraaten. 

Forsooth, there’s a wide contrast between the 
two conditions,” said count Horn, with a meaning 
look at Orange. * ^ Methinks a policy of submission 
would resemble a mother throwing her child to the 
flames.” 

“ Or amount to our laying our necks on the 
block and saying to the accommodating Alva, with 
your permission we will die,” added Nassau. 

Faith, he will die soon enough who lives longest,” 
remarked HoQgstraaten. <*To turn our backs upon 
the Spanish, now, may be to turn our faces to the 
halter and run our heads into it. There will be some- 
thing to marvel at, whichever course we take, if 
either of us dies in bed. And since there is likely to 
be no choice as to our mode of exit from the world, 
it may the better help those who will come after us if 
our passport be a blade or a ball, rather than a gib- 
bet, an axe, or a stake.” 

*‘Who knows what force Alva is likely to bring 
with him? ” asked Louis. 


NOBLES IN COUNCIL. 19 

** At least half a score of thousands,” answered 
the prince. 

“ How know you that, noble Orange,” inquired 
Egmont, with some surprise. 

‘ ‘ Marry ; by the same means that I became aware 
of our sovereign’s insincerity,” replied Orange, ele- 
vating his brow. trust rather to the thoughts 
than the glitter of royalty.” 

You may be misled.” 

**No. There are other creatures besides moles 
and bats that operate in the dark. I control some of 
them, and those that have eyes.” 

Well, to the matter in hand, friends,” said Horn, 
who was averse to having the prince’s methods for 
securing information too closely considered. *‘How 
shall we operate respecting this Spanish Alva when 
he appears.” 

Drive him back,” observed Hoogstraaten, reso- 
lutely. 

‘^Is that your feeling, also, count Egmont?” 
inquired Horn. 

am not prepared to counsel such a policy, 
seigniors, and for the reason that I do not, like you, 
apprehend difficulty through his advent.” 

The feeling of disappointment which this language 
created, was, in a good degree smothered, though 
Egmont could easily perceive that it was unexpected. 
To all, but to Orange more than to the rest, it was 
productive of sadness. The count and he had been 
so long and ardently attached to each other — had 
shared so much of joy and sorrow as privy counselors 


20 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


of the regent, as stadtholders, and as genuine 
friends — that this divergence of opinion seemed like a 
weakening of the strong cords that had held them to 
each other. Besides, he feared for the result of the 
conference in view of its effect upon the people at 
large, as he doubted the expediency of attempting to 
resist Alva without Egmont’s powerful influence in 
conjunction therewith. 

‘‘Think you so, my dear count?” he questioned, 
sadly. “ Surely, we cannot hope that the provinces 
will better enjoy an army of occupation, even though 
its mission be only to enforce existing laws, than 
they now do the hirelings who garrison the cities. 
If they are disquieted and rancorous as matters are at 
present, their passions will be more deeply stirred by 
additional burdens and privations. They may be 
forced to wear the fetters, but they will never yield 
their faith, though the Rhine, the Meuse, and the 
Scheldt run red with their blood. But, I take it, 
Alva’s coming will be the signal for greater atrocities 
than those hitherto experienced. There will be 
butcheries on both sides. Even now Valenciennes is 
a smothered volcano because the regent contemplates 
placing a garrison over it. Remember, noble count, 
the foment and destruction of August. The churches 
of Saint Omer, Ypres, and Antwerp were not deemed 
of sufficient sanctity by those who are weary of the 
yoke of Rome to prevent the destruction of their 
images. And, think you, if the Protestants were 
violent then, they will not be furious under stronger 
provocation? The shouts of ‘ Mayken ! Mayken!’ 


NOBLES IN COUNCIL. 


21 


* Long live the Beggars ! ’ which then burdened the 
air, and are still ringing in our ears, may soon awaken 
the people to infinitely more terrible demonstrations 
than any we have yet beheld. Before Alva reaches 
us, we have the opportunity for organizing a force 
capable of resisting him. If the opposition to des- 
potic sway be so strong here in the southern prov- 
inces as to demonstrate itself in such deeds as those I 
have reverted to, surely we may count on securing a 
goodly force of thousands therefrom, and a much 
greater one from the provinces of the north, which, 
as you know, contain a largely increased ratio of 
Protestants, as compared with the south.” 

‘^But, bethink you, worthy prince,” said Egmont 
as Orange paused, * ‘ the image breakers of August 
were composed, for the most part, of the rabble, 
whirled about by the temporary influence of a fren- 
zied passion. They would not have presumed to 
execute their crazy scheme in the presence of such 
well-organized and disciplined troops as Alva will 
convey hither. And should they, even after his arri- 
val, by any possible freak of fortune, be so enabled 
to harass his operations as to render them abortive, 
Philip could easily increase his force from his own 
dominions, or by an alliance with some other poten- 
tate. So, you see, that even were I disposed to 
encourage your plan, the reason I have given would 
constrain my withholding consent thereto. But I 
have already indicated my belief that Alva’s coming 
is no cause for increased alarm on the part of any 
one.” 


22 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


‘‘ Alas, my dear count, I fear me, you are not meas- 
uring the facts, as they really exist, by that spirit of 
wisdom which, we are all assured, you possess,” per- 
sisted the prince. Verily do I believe that unless 
this Spanish movement be checked in time, the 
streams of blood which Titelmann and his ilk have 
drawn from Protestant veins are but rills compared 
with the torrents that are yet to flow.” 

Then there followed other appeals, not only from 
Orange, but from the three who thought with him. 
Egmont, however, clung tenaciously to his opinions, 
so that at the end of two hours, while there was an 
entire absence of acrimony, and due courtesy marked 
the address of each, nothing that promised organized 
resistance to Alva was decided upon. When the 
conference ended, these five notable persons sat 
down to dinner, at the conclusion of which **they 
mounted their horses, and departed each his own 
way.” 


CHAPTER II. 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

W ILLIAM the Silent, had not indulged in mere 
idle bravado when informing Egmont that 
he possessed the means of gaining an insight into 
the king’s purposes respecting the Netherlands, and 
himself in particular. For a long time, he had kept 
Philip’s operations under close surveillance through 
the media of trusty friends at the royal residence. 
Even though the king exercised extreme caution in 
caring for his private papers, he was unsuccessful in 
barring their contents from the prince’s knowledge. 
Unknown to Philip, his cabinet would be opened and 
copies of the documents secured. These copies 
would reach Orange by various means, thus enabling 
him to act intelligently and with greater safety. 

Previous to this Dendermonde conference, the 
prince had decided to visit his provinces in the north, 
over which he exercised the functions of stadtholder. 
This course he deemed absolutely necessary, however 
the interview might result. His disappointment, 
therefore, had little or no effect upon his design, and 
he immediately set out to accomplish it. But he had 
not gone many rods from the place of meeting, when 
he was hailed by a young man attired in the costume 
of a Spanish peasant. There was nothing about the 

(23) 


24 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


appearance of this person to make any special impres- 
sion upon the mind of a casual observer. Nor would 
a stranger have been likely, even approximately, to 
guess his age. In his physiognomy there was an 
apparent absence of anything which indicated more 
than average intelligence; indeed, except that his 
deep-set, jet black eyes betrayed the possession of an 
active, fiery spirit when aroused, he might have been 
regarded as something of a dolt. 

Orange turned in his saddle and halted his steed as 
the low signal reached his ears. As there were a 
number of persons in his immediate vicinity, he was 
at first puzzled to know who had accosted him. But 
his doubts were at once set at rest, as the individual 
advanced a step or two toward him. Instantly, the 
face of the prince lighted with a smile, and before 
uttering a word, he beckoned him to his side. Then 
taking his hand, in a low tone, indicative of surprise, 
he said : 

“ Ah, Rudolph, it is you ! Thrice welcome, not- 
withstanding your singular disguise. But until this 
minute, I did not suspect your presence here.” 

believe you, noble prince. You deemed me 
far away near the Spanish court,” was replied. 

Truly, I did. But there is good reason for your 
coming, I doubt not,” observed William, inquiringly. 

‘‘There is, seignior William. And more than 
one.” 

“ Affecting my own interest? ” 

“You will so construe the most important, I trow,” 
said Rudolph. 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


25 


*‘Then it signifies something of moment?" and 
Orange leaned toward the young man as if to suggest 
caution. 

‘*Of the greatest moment to yourself, my dear 
friend. It involves your life," was replied, scarcely 
above a whisper. 

The prince did not at once respond, but gazed 
upon the young man's face with a look of deep con- 
cern. 

By whose authority?" he at length asked. 

The king’s," came in a scarcely audible tone. 

William’s eyes sought the ground, this time, and 
for a full minute he seemed unconscious of his sur- 
roundings. 

How came you from Spain?" questioned the 
prince, arousing from his abstraction. 

^‘By water, mostly, to Calais; thence, the best I 
could until I reached Alost, where I procured a horse 
something the worse for wear, for a trifle more than 
nothing. I left him at the small inn yonder, and 
started to inquire you out." 

What ! How knew you I was at Dendermonde ? " 

Faith, I didn’t know it, noble prince, until I 
came to Dendermonde. But had you been here 
twenty-four hours, I should have learned of it at 
Alost. You are too prominent and popular to be 
secreted in a gourd rind. Dendermonde is in my 
way to Antwerp, where I was sure to learn of your 
whereabouts, and so I halted to inquire after you, as 
I had done at Alost. The inn-keeper informed me 
that you were here less than an hour ago." 


26 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


You would have missed me had your arrival been 
delayed ten minutes,” said Orange. 

<‘And have followed you to Antwerp, whither, it 
may be, you are going,” remarked Rudolph. 

‘‘Yes. But to do little more than pass through it. 
You will accompany me, doubtless. I desire further 
information, and we can talk by the way.” 

“ Bethink you, prince; I have the merest jade of 
an animal, the rattle of whose bones may be a con- 
stant source of excitement to this spirited charger,” 
said Rudolph, smiling. 

“I will temper his gait, if not his fire, to suit the 
pace of your unfortunate steed, unless you will per- 
mit me to purchase you a better one.” 

“Thanks; no, my good friend. The one I have 
conforms with my attire. A contrast may awaken 
the supicion of the knowing ones ; and I am not yet 
ready to disclose myself.” 

“You shall act at your own discretion,” replied 
Orange. “ But in any event, let us be moving. We 
are likely to attract undue attention, here.” 

Pursuant to this suggestion, Rudolph commenced 
retracing his steps, followed by the prince, and they 
were soon at the inn, where Rudolph mounted, and 
together they left Dendermonde. 

“ I will pass for your servant, if need be, seignior 
William,” said Rudolph as they emerged into the 
open country. 

“ Very good. And, now, what further have you 
to relate respecting the king and myself?” inquired 
Orange. “You have served me well in Spain, and 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


27 


I opine that you are prepared to bestow the fullest 
enlightenment touching the king’s designs upon this 
unfortunate country. What, first, is his disposition 
toward me? ” 

** Briefly, worthy prince, he means, as I have said, 
your death. Alva has received written instructions to 
accomplish it at the earliest opportunity following his 
arrival. This paper is a copy of the mandate, surrep- 
titiously gained. You will find that it is couched in 
the most unequivocal terms, and you may be sure 
that it will be faithfully executed by the bloody duke, 
if you choose to grant him an opportunity for so 
doing.” 

As he said this, Rudolph handed the prince a well- 
sealed document, which, after a glance about him, 
the latter opened and read with avidity.* 

‘ ‘ Ah, I see. It is most definite both as to person 
and purpose,” said Orange, after perusing and secret- 
ing the paper. shall, nevertheless, visit my 

provinces, and leave other designs to the turn of 
events. Know you the date of Alva’s departure from 
Spain? ” 

‘‘lam confident that it is not known yet by him- 
self. But, certainly, he does not expect to get away 
until spring. I take it that he will not reach here 
before mid-summer.” 

“ Good ! That agrees with my desires, since come 

*To serve the purposes of the narrative at this stage, this event in the 
life of Orange is introduced here, though it did not really occur until the 
following summer, and after he had returned to his home in Germany. 
Had the information reached him as shown above, it is not probable that 
his plans would have been materially changed thereby. 


28 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDP 


he will. ’Tis said that he is training his troops to 
the greatest degree of discipline. What think you?’* 

“ It is, indeed, true. Every man will count for 
double the value of an ordinary soldier. Will the 
Netherlands resist him, noble prince? ” 

I know not what may result,” replied William. 

There is a division of feeling among the nobles 
touching such action. As yet, there is little promise 
of organized opposition. Confidently, to you : Eg- 
mont confides in Philip’s honesty and Alva’s 
humanity.” 

‘‘A pair of rotten crutches to lean on, worthy 
seignior. Let me further enlighten you. Egmont’s 
head will not be worth the hat that covers it when 
Philip is done with him.” 

“ Faith, you indicated that in your last message, 
and included count Horn and myself. I have to 
•thank you, my dear Rudolph, not only for that and 
other previous intelligence, but, also, for safely convey- 
ing the very important paper I have just read, to my 
hands. You shall not regret your fidelity to me.” 

am abundantly rewarded for my poor services 
by your appreciation of them. But, if you please, 
let me divert your thoughts. It is said in Spain that 
the field-preaching by Ambrose Wille and others is 
working tremendous havoc among his holiness’s 
adherents here.” 

There is no more certain truth than that,” said 
William. 

And, also, that you yourself have become tainted 
with heresy.” 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


29 


“Verily, they rate me moderately,” smilingly 
replied Orange. ‘ ‘ I have become thoroughly in- 
fected. They should not deem it a remarkable thing 
for me to return to the faith of my parents. Indeed, 
I do not think I ever disavowed it. True, while at 
the court of Charles V., where everything was papis- 
tic, I yielded to surroundings and became a Roman- 
ist in name. My tutors were always careful to asso- 
ciate the creed with the discipline I received, so 
that, as far as I was a churchman at all, I was a Ro- 
manist. But I warrant you that I was very lightly 
concerned touching religious rites of any kind. I 
have thought somewhat deeper since, and acknowl- 
edged fealty to ^ Holy Mother Church.’ To-day, 
however, I stand self- absolved from all allegiance 
thereto, and accept, though with a very moderate 
degree of fervor, it may be, the code of morals 
which Martin Luther gave to my parents, and they, 
in turn, to me.” 

“ My dear prince,” cried Rudolph, in a tone 
almost ecstatic, ‘ ‘ it gives me joy to hear you so express 
yourself. The acknowledgment just made renders it 
possible for me to make you my confidant. I, too, 
have drifted into the widening heretical stream. But 
my lips have been needfully well-guarded, else my 
opportunities for burrowing after the king’s purposes 
would have ceased, and I might have received an 
unsought passport to the Inquisition and a quietus by 
the executioner's axe.” 

“You have done wisely, good Rudolph, both as 
respects your change of faith and your silence. But 


30 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


consider. How will your friends at home esteem this 
truly serious affair ? ” 

Marry; I am certain they will denounce it as 
heinous. My mind is settled to a sad conclusion, 
seignior William. My father will disinherit me after 
the first failure to win me back to the Church.” 

fear that may be so, my dear friend,” said 
Orange, tenderly. “It would be a heavy sacrifice, 
the forfeiture of your prospective titles and estates. 
But, then, the menacing affliction is not utterly shorn 
of hope. Bethink you; the countess, your mother, 
betrays somewhat of sympathy for the Protestant cause, 
and the count’s well known esteem for her may so 
temper his mind — sure to be wrought upon in your 
favor by whatever force of persuasion she can master 
— as to mitigate his wrath and constrain him to greater 
liberality.” 

“So mote it be, noble seignior. But you know 
that my father is closely leagued with Rome. What 
he would refrain from as the parent he might accom- 
plish as the bigot. Popery places the Church first. 
Kin, of whatever grade, is secondary. If the Church 
wills to have me cut off, I fear me, he will obey her 
mandate. But, dear friend, that, as you are aware, 
will not be my only grief, should ill betide me.” 

“True; it would hazard your proposed alliance 
with the fair Christina.” 

“Yes, seignior. And in her case there would be 
no mother to pour oil on the troubled waters, as I hope 
there will be in mine, if there be harsh discord. Both 
her parents are violently opposed to all faith which 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


31 


does not adhere to Rome ; while she herself is strongly- 
intrenched in papal dogma. I have more need to 
fear the severance of ties there, than I have at home.” 

^^Your courage and faith will be alike greatly 
tested, my dear Rudolph. But we are unworthy to 
name God if we cannot trust him. After all, the 
baron Schwarzberg may not pmve invulnerable. May- 
hap reason and conscience will do as much for him as 
it has done for you and me. And if he be aroused 
thereby, the baroness and Christina are likely to 
follow his leadings. Is it your purpose to visit Ger- 
many soon?” 

so intend. And it is owing to that and the 
desire to ensure the safe convoy of the message I 
brought you, that I am here to-day. Both my parents 
have written repeatedly for my return, and Christina 
has most urgently appealed to me to the same effect.” 

thank you again, worthy Rudolph, for your great 
service to me, and I bid you God-speed in all things 
that pertain to your personal interest.” 

The tone in which Orange uttered this language 
evinced the deep sincerity of his heart. While Wil- 
liam, at the date of Rudolph’s birth, was at the court 
of Charles V. at Brussels, receiving his training in the 
capacity of page, he frequently made brief visits to his 
German home in the duchy of Nassau, and the large 
estate of Rudolph’s father, the count Rosenfeldt, being 
contiguous thereto, rendered contact easy between 
the child and the youth. Owing to the wide contrast 
of religious faith existing between the two families, 
their interest in each other, up to within a couple of 


32 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT 


years of Rudolph’s birth, produced no greater social 
intercourse than the mere exchange of neighborly 
courtesies. But when, at that period, William inher- 
ited through the death of his cousin, Rene de Nassau- 
Chalons, who left no children of his own, the small 
principality of Orange in France, and soon afterward 
entered the Catholic court of Charles to be educated, 
an improvement, which soon ripened into intimacy, 
manifested itself in the mutual feelings of these neigh- 
bors. One of the results of this change was the 
friendship of the two children, which constantly 
strengthened with their years, notwithstanding 
Orange had reached his thirteenth birthday when 
Rudolph was born. After the abdication of Charles 
and the elevation of Philip, which events occurred 
when the prince was twenty-two, and Rudolph, nine, 
these friends met less frequently. This partial inter- 
ruption of immediate intercourse, however, was 
bridged by correspondence. The latter, as he pre- 
viously had done, would seek counsel and instruction 
from Orange, as from an elder brother, while Orange, 
on the other hand, furnished him, so far as he could, 
with any information he desired. 

After the prince had married, Rudolph was privi- 
leged to visit him as often, and remain as long, as 
he desired. Orange was not always at home, it is 
true. His duties as stadtholder, and as privy coun- 
selor of Margaret, the regent, often required him to 
be absent; but this caused little or no inconvenience 
to Rudolph in the use of his privilege. Nothing of 
special moment occurred to interfere with these move- 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


33 


merits, for years. The youth, in the meantime, was 
verging towards manhood. At length he reached his 
eighteenth year, and Orange, in whose mind the early 
counsels of his Protestant parents, and his doubts 
concerning the established creed, engendered by the 
course of the Romish Church, were struggling to 
assert themselves, entertained the idea of using him 
in a way that might be of great advailtage to the 
oppressed provinces in time to come. He had long 
felt that Philip ought to be held under close surveil- 
lance as regarded his purposes concerning the Neth- 
erlands. But hitherto he had thought of no person 
whom he was willing to trust with the execution of 
such an important work. Rudolph seemed to meas- 
ure up to his desire. Though still in his teens, the 
youth evinced a more than ordinary capacity for the 
accomplishment of difficult tasks. He had a large 
share of native genius ; was self-possessed ; confident 
of his own abilities ; shrewd ; courageous ; discern- 
ing ; and, w'hile having secured a large fund of other 
knowledge, was, like Orange himself, complete master 
of several languages. After due deliberation, the 
prince informed him of his desire. Rudolph would 
do anything he possibly could for his friend, though 
in this case it was needful for him to gain his father’s 
consent. This proved to be an easy matter, as the 
real purpose was covered by his representing the 
advantage that would accrue to him through an 
extended visit to the Spanish capital. A few weeks 
served in which to complete his preparations, when 
he took his journey to Madrid, where he arrived in 
3 


34 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


due season armed with letters of introduction and 
recommendation from many of the nobles both of 
the Low Countries and of Germany. To follow him 
in the ways and means he employed for attaining his 
object, is unnecessary. Orange was well satisfied 
with the results of his operations as they related to 
the designs of the king, and quite as well pleased 
with the news from Rudolph’s own lips that he had 
renounced Rome and accepted the faith of the 
Reformers. 


CHAPTER III. 


CONFLICTING CREEDS. 7 

I T was night when the two travellers reached Ant- 
werp. Their journey would have been a tedious 
one, owing to the slow gait of Rudolph’s horse, had 
there not been much of interest for each to speak 
about and to hear. Orange proceeded to the house 
of a friend to remain until morning, while the young 
man disposed of himself at an inn. He preferred 
this course to accompanying the prince, a thing he 
had been invited to do, as he believed he would thus 
be less the subject of scrutiny and inquiry. His dis- 
guise might still be of service to him. He knew that 
baron Schwarzberg and household were, and for sev- 
eral months past had been, occupying their Antwerp 
residence, and he was extremely anxious to learn, 
before leaving for his own home, what effect his 
change of faith would have upon the baron and his 
family, especially Christina. During the ride, Wil- 
liam, who was well known to the baron, had prom- 
ised to wait upon him with a view to paving the way 
for Rudolph’s own appearance at his establishment. 
The design of the prince was not to divulge the facts 
as they really existed ; but only to suggest possibili- 
ties — thus feeling the temper of the baron — and seek 
to allay whatever feelings of prejudice might be 

( 35 ) 


36 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDP 

aroused thereby. The result of this interview wQuld 
be communicated to the young man, and he was then 
to act as discretion and duty might direct. 

To the families interested, this intimacy of Rudolph 
and Christina was of great importance. Society in 
Europe being in a transitional state as regarded creeds, 
especial interest attached to the formation of marital 
alliances, notably those contracted by the titled 
classes. The Romish Church then, as it has done to 
a large extent ever since, kept its communicants under 
close espionage respecting this matter, and it was 
regarded as inveighing, in a degree, against the faith 
for a papist to wed a Protestant. Though the prince 
of Orange had chosen one of the latter for a wife, he 
had done so under strong protests from the king and 
dignitaries both of State and Church. It was, per- 
haps, only because of his high position and great 
influence, and the fact that he was born of Protestant 
parents who early instructed him in their tenets, that 
he escaped those more violent demonstrations of dis- 
approval which many of less consequence received. 
But the danger was not restricted to the contracting 
parties themselves. It was hazardous for the parents 
on either side to consent to such a union. Every 
semblance of weakening towards Mother Church was 
construed as an incipient move in the direction of 
flagrant opposition, and demanded immediate sup- 
pression. Thus, it will be seen, there was a twofold 
influence likely to oppose Rudolph, now that he had 
changed his religious views — the baron’s own appar- 


CONFLICTING CREEDS. 37 

ent . bigotry and exclusiveness, and his dread of 
churchly discipline. 

Baron Schwarzberg and count Rosenfeldt were dis- 
tantly related. This fact, principally, had led to the 
somewhat close affiliation of the families of which 
they were the respective heads. Hence, Rudolph 
and Christina very early came together, and, as they 
harmonized, in a good degree, in disposition and 
temperament, a mutual fondness manifested itself, 
which, while they were yet mere children, ripened 
into a feeling akin to love. During the absence of 
Rudolph in Spain, they had corresponded freely, 
though the young man had not given her the slightest 
intimation of the transitional process he was under- 
going respecting his religious views. 

Under such conditions, Rudolph entered Antwerp, 
accompanied by his friend and counselor. 

On the next day, as early as propriety would admit 
of his doing so, Orange presented himself at the 
baron’s residence. A long interview ensued, during 
which Orange endeavored to elicit from his host, by 
casual references, some indication of the treatment 
Rudolph might expect from him in the event of a 
change of his faith. But whether Schwarzberg failed 
to suspect the design of the prince, or preferred to 
keep his own counsel in the matter, certain it was 
that he left his caller as much in the dark at the end 
of an hour, as he was when the colloquy began. Be- 
fore retiring, however. Orange gave him to under- 
stand that the young man had returned from Spain, 
and that he was likely to see him in a short time. 


38 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


William was disappointed and somewhat chagrined 
at the outcome of his undertaking. He would gladly 
have made an explicit statement of the facts, had he 
not feared that such a ’ course would militate against 
Rudolph’s interests. That the baron would be deeply 
excited over the changed circumstances, when they 
came to his knowledge, he did not doubt. But, since 
he had failed to draw him out, he believed that a full 
disclosure by the young man, one embracing all the 
reasons for his course, while it at first aroused the 
baron’s wrath, might afterwards tend to its mitiga- 
tion. Thus feeling, he sought Rudolph at the inn. 
The latter was awaiting, with feverish anxiety, the 
result of his friend’s endeavor. Of course, the report 
he received, in no whit lessened his suspense, though 
the non-committal attitude of the baron he was dis- 
posed to construe as a somewhat favorable augury, 
which strengthened the hope he had entertained of 
ultimate success. His purpose — one which Orange 
heartily approved — was to first declare his change to 
Christina. He was aware that it would be a very 
sudden and unwelcome announcement. But, unless 
she deemed her churchly vows superior to her love 
for him — a thing he was inclined to doubt — he was 
quite sure she would join Rudolph in his appeals to 
her father. It might, however, be a difficult thing 
for him to see her alone before encountering the 
baron. But Orange settled the matter by arranging 
for having the baron’s residence closely watched, so 
that when he absented himself therefrom it would be 


CONFLICTING CREEDS. 


39 

promptly reported ; then Rudolph, prepared for the 
opportunity, could carry out his plan. 

In pursuance of this design, he provided himself 
with an outfit suited to his station, though still retain- 
ing his disguise, which could be quickly laid aside 
when the signal was given. But he was doomed to 
what was to him a torturing delay. The day waned ; 
the night hung its curtains about the city ; yet far 
into the darkness he and the prince waited, in the 
hope that something would require the baron to leave 
home. But no word indicative of such action was 
received by them. When it seemed certain that he 
would not do so before the following day, at least, 
they separated for the night, hoping that fortune 
would favor them on the morrow. 

At a timely hour. Orange returned to the inn to 
find Rudolph more anxious than ever. The former, 
though greatly desiring to attend to some matters of 
personal interest so as to hasten his departure for 
Leyden, was too deeply absorbed by this affair of his 
young and faithful friend to leave him until a definite 
result appeared. At length, late in the afternoon, in- 
telligence came that the baron, attended by a num- 
ber of friends, had taken horse and left the city. The 
prince became exceedingly solicitous at the announce- 
ment, while Rudolph trembled with hope and fear. 
But he hastily proceeded to arrange for the ordeal. 
At the end of fifteen minutes the paint had disap- 
peared from his face, the wig from his head, and the 
garb of the peasant had been exchanged for the dis- 
tinguishing costume of a nobleman. When fully pre- 


40 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


pared, with his friend’s “ God-speed ” ringing in his 
ears, he took his course for the baron’s residence. 
After being announced, he was conducted to an 
ample reception hall, whose tapestried walls and fres- 
coed ceiling were profusely decorated with gorgeous 
paintings, heraldic emblems, and several armorial 
groups, whose parts were adjusted to each other in a 
variety of ways. There were, also, a number of 
statues of biblical characters arranged at intervals upon 
the floor. 

Nearly a half hour — it seemed a much longer time 
to the young man — passed away before he was invited 
to another room, where the lady he came to see was 
prepared to receive him. The page who led the way, 
ushered him in and immediately retired. As the 
door closed behind him, Rudolph halted. It seemed 
as if an invisible hand had arrested his steps. Christina 
was before him, more lovely, to his thought, than 
ever before. The simple attire she had chosen for 
the occasion was calculated to heighten the beauty 
for which she was noted. As he entered, she had 
arisen to welcome him, and would have hastened to 
his embrace, had not his hesitancy embarrassed her 
and restrained the movement. The pause, however, 
was of short duration. The next moment they 
were locked in each other’s arms, expressing their 
joy in those artless ways which true love instinc- 
tively impresses into its service. For, be it known 
that however frequently the world changes its styles 
regarding other things, love’s methods for asserting 


CONFLICTING CREEDS. 


41 

itself, though they may be varied to suit surroundings, 
ever remain the same. 

‘*Ah, Rudolph,” said Christina, at the close of 
their ecstatic greetings, ‘‘happy as your presence 
makes me, I don’t know but you need a little chiding 
for delaying to come until now. The noble prince of 
Orange informed father two days ago that you had 
arrived from Spain.” 

‘ ‘ That is true, dearest Christina. I was already 
in Antwerp when my good friend, the prince, visited 
the baron,” replied Rudolph, as a shade of sadness 
passed over his face. “ But there was a reason, 
which I may hereafter explain, that caused me to 
defer my coming until now.” 

“ O, you can’t think how much of curiosity you 
excite in me by such an indefinite announcement as 
that,” said Christina, gleefully, though hiding a 
reproof under the tone. 

“ There, Christina ; see how quick you are to dis- 
cover my defects. Bethink you, that I am just from 
Spain where they do all kinds of things — and some 
of them very questionable ones, forsooth — without 
bestowing the slightest explanation therefor. Come, 
let us forget that we are not perfect, and talk of the 
past and of the future.” 

‘ ‘ Let it be of the past, dear Rudolph. It may 
contain the most of our earthly bliss.” 

A look of anxiety clouded Christina’s features as 
she spoke. A similar expression, though, like this, 
but momentary, was the cause of Rudolph’s singular 
hesitancy on entering the room. While not, then. 


42 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


able to account for it, he did not construe it as a 
modification of the welcome he had expected to 
receive. Now, he was, if possible, still more mysti- 
fied ; and, waiving an immediate reply, he led her to 
a seat. At length, hiding an emotion of solicitude 
under a playful rallying tone, he said : 

Come, come, my Christina, you are fatigued, or 
vexed about something, I opine. Remember, I have 
not seen you before for two whole years, and have 
come all the way from Spain to bask in the light of 
your sunny face. We shall find clouds enough with- 
out creating them, even though the measure of our 
life joys exceed the human average.” 

*‘I believe that to be true. But, alas, while I 
would infinitely rather dispel than create shadows, I 
fear me, they will come more rapidly and dense than 
we are able to endure. Forgive my sad feelings. I 
had hoped to delay them ; but they will not be con- 
trolled and must speak.” 

Christina,” said Rudolph, with an energy that 
revealed alarm, ‘*if you love me, tell me what has 
transpired ! ” 

** O, I do love you, better than any other being on 
earth,” she replied, nervously, as the tears welled to 
her eyes. 

‘‘Then you will enlighten me.” 

“ I must do so, dearest ; and yet the task is a heavy 
one.” Christina paused a moment, her eyes bent 
sadly and tenderly upon his own, and then added : 
“You have become a Protestant ! ” 


CONFLICTING CREEDS. 43 

What ! How know you that? ” cried Rudolph, 
in unfeigned surprise. 

** My father so informed me.” 

^^And he? ” 

Gathered the news from the prince of Orange. 
For beneath the extreme caution the prince exercised 
during his visit yesterday, father discovered his 
evident design, and framed what he believes to be 
the fact.” 

*<That I am no longer an adherent of Rome?” 
added Rudolph, in a questioning way. 

That is his conviction,” answered Christina, 
with emotion. But how I do hope you can and 
will prove it a mistake.” 

A silence of some moments intervened, at the end 
of which, Rudolph, in a slow and deeply serious 
tone, as if conscious that what he was about to utter 
might ultimately prove his death warrant, said : 

Christina, why should I not be a Protestant, 
rather than a slave, body and soul? ” 

O, Rudolph ! ” cried the frightened girl, and 
crossing herself at the same time. 

Nay, nay, dearest; do not allow yourself to 
become terrified,” hastily responded Rudolph. My 
simple question was not an acknowledgment.” 

‘‘ No. But, alas, it seemed to imply as much, and 
was, at least, heretical.” And Christina buried her 
face in her hands and wept. 

Christina,” implored Rudolph, beseech you, 
brush away those tears and listen to me.” 


44 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


After an earnest effort to control her emotion, she 
succeeded, when Rudolph continued : 

You regard my language as heretical, dear Chris- 
tina. Are you not aware that no word can be spoken, 
or act performed, which, in the slightest degree, 
reflects upon the Church, that its decrees do not, in 
these times, condemn as heretical ? It is this extreme 
severity of judgment which is dragging not only 
pronounced Protestants, but really sincere Catholics to 
the tortures of the Inquisition, wherever it has been 
established. Hence, the name of Peter Titelmann has 
grown famous — or infamous — here in the Netherlands ; 
while many of his class in Spain have become the 
rich and petted favorites of Philip and the pope, 
because, like him, they have been eager to drain the 
blood of the unfortunates whom the Inquisition chooses 
to suspect as at all weak in the faith.” 

‘<0, Rudolph, please, please do not discourse in 
that mode,” entreated Christina. “I esteem it wrong 
that I should listen to your words. And yet — and 
yet, since a change is apparent in your belief, I more 
than any other one, no doubt, have the right to know 
the reasons therefor.” 

‘‘And know them you shall, Christina, if you are 
willing to hear them. But to give them in a way 
that would be satisfactory to both you and myself, 
would require some time and test your patience as 
well. Be assured I shall make no attempt to disturb 
your own faith in the creed of ‘Mother Church,’ 
now, or hereafter, unless you seek my counsel. Will 
the baron return within an hour? ” 


CONFLICTING CREEDS. 45 

‘^No. He purposed remaining away for several 
hours.” 

“I am glad to know it, as I desire not to meet 
him to-day.” 

“ Rudolph,” said Christina in the most impressive 
tone she could command, consider well, I pray 
you, all the circumstances that blend in this present 
moment. Do not forget that you are about to fur- 
nish me with a history, not a single sentence of which 
would my father, were he here, permit you to utter 
in my hearing. Bethink you, also, that I have been 
educated in the strictest formulas of the Church of 
Rome ; that I am wedded to her by the most subtle 
ties of faith and love ; and that nothing — I repeat it 
— nothing but my intense affection for you, affords, 
in my view, the least justification for my listening to 
what you have to say.” 

Dearest Christina, I have weighed well all these 
considerations, and again assure you that I shall not 
seek, either directly or covertly, to influence you, in 
the slightest degree, to a favorable regard for my 
views. It rests with you to say whether or not I shall 
proceed.” 

Proceed,” faintly replied Christina, after a brief 
struggle with her conscience. 


CHAPTER IV. 


WELDED HEARTS, 


HE Story to which Christina gave her attention, 



1 soon proved as thrillingly interesting to herself 
as to Rudolph. It was, partly, a narration of general 
life in the court circles of Spain ; partly, descriptive 
of conflicts and executions resulting from real or sus- 
pected heresies ; and, partly, a tracing of the gradual, 
though sure, change of his own views respecting the 
creed and polity of “ Mother Church.” Rudolph’s 
mode of expression was entirely dispassionate, and his 
manner, generally, undemonstrative. He had re- 
stricted himself to this calmness so as to avoid awak- 
ening, by any heated representations, the sympathy 
of his fair listener in favor of Protestantism, or its 
adherents. 

But strive as she would to control her emotions, 
Christina could not remain unmoved. Though dur- 
ing the early part of the recital, she listened with 
aversion and a feeling of condemnation, her tender 
womanly instincts at length asserted their powers, and 
her heart was tossed, as it were, upon the waves of 
passion like the frail skiff upon those of the troubled 
sea. Rudolph traced the strife within her heart by 
the varying hues and expressions of her face. Anger, 
pity, anxiety, trepidation, repugnance, approval. 


(46) 


WELDED HEARTS, 


47 


dominated by turns ; and he was led to believe that, 
however the baron might regard his transition, Chris- 
tina, at least, would not view it as the sundering of 
the ties which bound them together. With this most 
agreeable feeling, the question naturally arose : What 
will be her decision in the event of my being spurned 
by her father and disinherited by my own? He 
trembled at the thought that such a culmination of 
circumstances might be awaiting him. 

To Christina, some of these revelations, in so far 
as they proved an expose of the duplicity of the Rom- 
ish Church, were novelties. Not that she was igno- 
rant of the fact that heresy, in the absence of recanta- 
tion by the offender, was almost invariably punished 
by death ; or that the most distressing tortures were 
resorted to for the purpose of effecting such recanta- 
tion. But all the information she had heretofore 
received concerning these things, was through , the 
Church. The doubt to which Rudolph’s portrayal 
had given birth, was never to know decay. Yet, 
not even he, much less, others, was, for the present, 
to be made aware of its existence. 

Have I wearied you, Christina, with my long 
and tedious story?” asked Rudolph, when he had 
brought his history down to the day on which he left 
Spain. 

<< No — not wearied. But you have pained me,” 
was replied, with a sigh. 

It grieves me to hear you say so,” was the quick 
response. Forgive me, please; but do not chide 
me for telling you what you ought, and what I mis- 


48 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


trust you desired, to know. It would trouble me 
deeply to feel that you have the slightest idea that I 
have been cruel toward you.” 

O, Rudolph, you know I could not think that. 
I am so sorry that such things as those you have told 
me about, became a part of your experience, or, 
indeed, that they occurred at all.” 

Then you believe that they were wrong ? ” came 
the questioning response. 

** I did not say that, dearest. But they made you 
so unhappy.” 

That is true. But, then, there was a leaven of 
God- given power in them which constrained me to a 
source of happiness beyond the realm of papal juris- 
diction. Can you be grieved at that, dear Chris- 
tina? ” 

The question was asked in a low, soft tone, his 
eyes, beaming with the light of two distinct loves, 
gazing fondly into her own. For a few seconds she 
silently returned his look, while a deeper hue warmed 
her complexion and an almost imperceptible smile 
played around her lips. But the flush faded to a 
pale, painful tint, the smile yielded to a sad, tremu- 
lous expression ; and her eyes, now filling with tears, 
sought the floor. 

Please, Rudolph, withdraw that question. I 
cannot answer it now. Perhaps, never,” came in 
slow, beseeching tones. ** Make your own infer- 
ences, but seek not to commit me against my religious 
vows.” 

*‘Oh, Christina! sweetest friend of all my life, 


WELDED HEARTS. 


49 


how regretful I am because of the inquiry, if it con- 
veyed even the slightest sense of sorrow to your heart, 
I do withdraw it, and substitute the most earnest 
assurances of gratitude, inasmuch as you have not 
I spurned me from you, as a consequence of my changed 
opinions," said Rudolph, hurriedly. 

How was it possible for me to do that? " asked 
Christina, starting. If a forced separation ever 
results because of the change, it will be the fault of 
others ; not mine." 

Another reason for thankfulness, on my part," 
said Rudolph, his face now radiant with joy. “ You 
are the brave and noble girl, under the circumstances, 
which I hoped to find you." 

** Hoped, Rudolph ? Did you doubt my con- 
stancy? " came the half-reproving queries. 

“ Not if left to yourself, Christina. But I feared 
your father’s influence.” 

<< Were my faith shaken in my religious creed, that 
might have the effect to restore it, but it can never 
restrain or destroy my devotion to you. Will you see 
my father to-morrow, Rudolph ? " 

Her assurance intensified Rudolph’s pleasure, and 
he would have expressed himself in the most appre- 
ciating terms, had not her question suddenly diverted 
his thought to the possible, even probable, result of 
his call upon the baron the next day, and startled him 
to the realization that this might be his last interview 
with Christina. But the feeling was not a new one. 
After permitting a few moments to pass in silence, he 
replied : 

4 


50 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


I am expecting to do so, and hope I may.’^ 
^‘Rudolph; ” and Christina’s look as she spoke 
was an imploring one; need not urge you to 
extreme caution with my father, for I know you will 
exercise it. But I do wish your consent -to one thing 
I desire to do.” 

Name it, please.” 

** I wish to talk with him concerning your changed 
views, before you and he meet.” 

** I shall not object to that, since such a course may 
facilitate my own conference with him. Neverthe- 
less, Christina, I also, have a request to make, though 
I believe it to be entirely unnecessary. You will not 
encourage him to think that I will, at any time, dis- 
card the principles I have so recently adopted.” 

Such a matter did not enter my mind,” said 
Christina. “If he can be at all moved in your 
favor, it will be by the array of facts your story con- 
tained, and a consideration of the intimacy existing 
between us. But, dear Rudolph, I tremble with 
apprehension.” 

“ We must both ask God to direct us, and entreat 
him to shape the baron’s conclusions. I have learned 
something of the power of prayer, since I began to 

pray from the heart, and ” 

“ Rudolph ! ” cried Christina, nervously. 

“Ah, I thank you for the reminder,” said the 
young man. “ I forgot, for the moment, that such 
language is disagreeable to you. Christina, is it not 
best that we part, now? ” 

“ Perhaps.” 


WELDED HEARTS. 


51 


The response resembled a long drawn sigh more 
than a distinct verbal expression, and the fair girl’s 
eyes again filled with tears as they sought her lover’s 
face. 

We shall meet again soon, I trust,” said he, with 
an assuring look, as he drew her close to his breast. 
But Christina knew that he had serious misgivings, 
notwithstanding his hopeful tone. That her own 
heart was swayed by fear, she did not seek to dis- 
guise. Closely they clung to each other. There were 
low, tender exchanges of sentiment, such as only an 
ordeal like the one through which they were passing 
can evolve. 

Then they parted. 

To Rudolph, the interview had been like an hour’s 
sunshine during a pause in the storm. To Christina 
it appeared like the chilly evening twilight whose 
somberness foreboded the blackness of darkness with- 
in whose ghostly domain direful events might be 
awaiting her. 

Orange met the young man on his return, with the 
same anxiety he felt when bidding him God-speed. 
Rudolph at once communicated the facts concerning 
his visit. The prince hoped with his ardent friend, 
and feared with Christina. He doubted the latter’s 
influence upon her father in such a case. But he was 
too prudent to express his apprehensions. Let the 
trial be made, he thought, while holding himself ready 
to assist the lovers in any way and to whatever extent 
possible. 

‘*My good friend,” he at length said, have you 


52 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


concluded upon your course, should the baron’s de- 
cision be an adverse one? ” 

‘‘Yes. I shall return home, as was my intention; 
and, unless my father reject me, beseech him to in- 
terpose in my behalf.” 

“ But should he reject you. What then? ” 

“Alas, noble prince, I know not, what then. It 
must be as God will guide me. Perhaps I shall be- 
come a martyr for my faith. At least, living or 
dying, I will be free from the yoke of Rome.^’ 

“ Nobly spoken,” observed the prince, with a 
brightening look. “ It was like aRosenfeldt. All the 
records of the family, so far as my knowledge extends, 
mark its members as sincere and courageous.” 

“ Thanks. You do us honor, good seignior Wil- 
liam,” said Rudolph, and bowing his acknowledg- 
ments, as well. 

“ I shall invoke blessings on your effort of to-mor- 
row,” responded Orange, again reverting to his 
friend’s design, “and trust you will meet with no 
delays.” 

“Thank you again, noble prince. If they inter- 
vene it will be through no fault of mine. I should 
regret them as much for your sake as for my own.” 

“I understand you,” said Orange. “But, while 
I would fain be away from here, my share in your in- 
terests, not to mention the obligations I am under to 
you, warrants my stay, as yet.” 

“How kind you are,” replied Rudolph-, with feel- 
ing. “God grant I may reward your patience with 
good tidings on my return from the baron.” 


WELDED HEARTS. 


53 


The hours seemed to move slowly and heavily until 
they separated for the night, notwithstanding the 
prince sought to beguile them of their tediousness by 
recounting many scenes of barbarity which, within 
the last few months, had occurred in the Low Coun- 
tries. 

Meanwhile, baron Schwarzberg returned from his 
ride. But he was attended by some of his peers, and 
at once became so fully engrossed with them con- 
cerning State and Church affairs that Christina found 
no opportunity for conferring with him in Rudolph’s 
behalf. The time gradually wore away, but the com- 
pany remained. After waiting their separation until 
a late hour, she betook herself to her chamber with a 
heavy heart and throbbing head. It was midnight 
before the baron’s friends dispersed. As a conse- 
quence, he slept much beyond his usual time the next 
morning, thus forcing the anxious girl to another sea- 
son of deep suspense. 

But the opportunity came at last. The baron re- 
ceived her with some show of irritation in his manner, 
though his greeting was complacent. Christina was 
at a loss to know which best indicated his temper — 
the actions or the language. If the former, she look- 
ed for nothing less than defeat ; if the latter, she was 
hopeful of success. In any event, she must pursue 
her object and hazard results. 

The details of the interview need not be given 
here. As regards the outcome, it more than met the 
fears which the trembling girl had entertained. The 
frank statement of Rudolph’s change, had seemed to 


54 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


transform the baron’s heart into flint and his face into 
that of a savage. While he had construed the lan- 
guage of Orange as being a covert confession of the 
young man’s transition, some grains of doubt, respect- 
ing the correctness of the conclusion, had still re- 
mained in his mind ; but its announcement now, as a 
verity, swept these away, and became as a torch to 
kindle his wrath. Christina left his presence with 
the baron’s warning, that she must not again approach 
him in Rudolph’s behalf, unless he recanted. 

For a long time, the unhappy girl could not con- 
trol her grief. But the fear ^ that her lover might 
come to learn his destiny — a course which, she was 
convinced, would only serve to increase her father’s 
ire — enabled her, finally, to restrain her feelings suf- 
ficiently to indite the following note : 

‘‘Dearest Rudolph, — 

“ Do not risk an interview with my father, as it 
will be worse than useless. I have given him your recent his- 
tory and pled most earnestly in your behalf. But the story 
enraged him, and all my pleading seemed like a winnowing 
fan to increase the flame. If you can arrange for meeting me 
somewhere, send written statement of your plan by bearer. 

“ Yours faithfully, 

“ Christina.” 

This she carefully folded and sealed. Then sum- 
moning a page upon whom she could fully rely, 
she placed it in his care, and gave him verbal direc- 
tions how to proceed. 

But the message had been too long delayed. Ten 
minutes before it reached the inn, Rudolph had left 
for the baron’s abode. 


CHAPTER V. 


A LOYAL PAPIST. 

I N order to give Christina ample time for the con- 
summation of her purpose, Rudolph had patiently- 
waited until the shadows began to lengthen before he 
started for the Schwarzberg home. It was natural that 
he should experience some trepidation in view of the 
importance of his object. This feeling deepened as 
he signaled his presence at the heavy front entrance 
on his arrival ; so that when ushered, as he had been 
the day previous, into the large reception-room, he 
was but poorly prepared to give a lucid statement of 
his case. Happily for him, there was some delay, 
during which the servant was searching the house to 
find the baron and announce the visitor. But he 
failed to encounter him before Schwarzberg himself 
incidentally entered the hall where Rudolph was 
awaiting him. Meantime the young man had, in a 
good degree, regained his equipoise. 

Rudolph was immediately recognized, and his first 
glance at the baron’s face, satisfied him that he was 
not welcome. But, in his ignorance of what had, 
within the last three hours, passed between the father 
and daughter, the hope still remained that no adverse 
result would attend the meeting. With becoming 

( 55 ) 


56 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


deference of manner, therefore, he arose and ex- 
tended his salutation. 

“ You were known to me on the instant, sirrah," 
came the brusque and humiliating response. 

To be addressed as a vassal intruding upon forbid- 
den ground, was a keen cut to one of Rudolph’s sen- 
sitive nature. But as he had come with some degree 
of preparation for unsavory utterances, he stifled his 
resentful feelings, and modestly replied : 

“ The noble baron is, perhaps, somewhat surprised 
at the informal manner in which I have presented my- 
self; but I have pursued the course that I hoped 
would best meet your desires." 

“ Had you known how well I understand you, and 
how slightly I esteem your visit and yourself, you 
would not have sought my presence at this time," 
answered the baron, with increased tartness in his 
tone. 

“ Ah, my very good friend, if you will allow me 
to address you as was my wont, there may be some 
mistake in your interpretation of certain matters, 
which, perhaps, have come to your knowledge respect- 
ing me. I crave the privilege of being clearly under- 
stood, notwithstanding your assurance that I am so 
regarded." 

“ You are direct from Spain, are you not? " in- 
quired the baron, with a scowling look. 

“ I am," replied Rudolph. 

“And were so circumstanced there as to be con- 
versant with much of a private nature that pertained 
to the Spanish court ? " 


A LOYAL PAPIST. 


57 


That is true, noble seignior.” 

“And you heard and beheld things which you 
were pleased to construe as nefarious, simply because 
they related to the interest of * Holy Mother Church ’ ? ” 
pursued the baron. 

“If you please, good seignior, I received impres- 
sions that were irresistible.” 

“ Which means,” said Schwarzberg, in a most sar- 
castic way, “ that you questioned the right of God’s 
vicegerent to defend the only true faith on earth — 
arraigning him and his loyal adherents before the bar 
of your narrow conceptions, and condemning them 
en masse.” 

* ‘ I was compelled to regard actual crime as antag- 
onistic to the spirit of Christianity. My conviction 
is that the State has no right to maltreat and murder 
an individual for his religious opinions,” came the 
courageous, though modest reply. 

* ‘ In saying that, you expose both your ignorance 
and your sophistry. The most holy canons teach 
that all rulers are the ministers of God for good,” 
and the baron smiled disdainfully. 

“Then, noble baron, must you class Frederick the 
elector and England’s queen as ” 

“ Silence ! prater ! Would you defiantly announce 
your heresy within my own halls and to my face? ” 

“Nay; but you will not hear me, seignior. Even 
the Inquisition accords audience to those it would 
condemn, though it may be a mere show of regard.” 

“Marry. There is venom in your every word; 
and were you not the unworthy son of my noble 


58 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

friend Rosenfeldt, I would straightway order your 
transfer to the custody of the loyal Titelmann, who 
would speedily stop that infamous tongue perforce.” 

‘‘Baron Schwarzberg,” responded Rudolph, assum- 
ing an attitude of courageous dignity, “you are, evi- 
dently, disposed to deny me a hearing, notwithstand- 
ing my humble and friendly endeavors to gain one. 
Nevertheless, I claim the right to be heard, for anoth- 
er’s sake as well as for my own. I will frankly say 
that I have renounced the authority of Rome, and 
accepted the dogma of liberty of conscience, as 
taught by the Reformers. Yet I have done this with- 
out any hope or design to influence you or yours to a 
similar course. Though aware that I have no right 
to molest you with an announcement of my opinions, 
save as it may affect the intimacy existing between 
the fair and noble Christina and myself, I am con- 
strained to feel that the life-long friendly intercourse 
of the families we represent, commends me rather to 
your courtesy, than to your denunciation, while I 
essay thus to act.” 

The baron was so surprised at what he deemed the 
young man’s temerity in assuming such a style of 
address, that he was, at first, without the power to 
articulate. But, as the reply progressed, he became 
sufficiently curious to remain silent until it closed. 
Then, changing his method, though not his mood, he 
excitedly responded: 

“Aha! Say you so? Prythee, come with me, 
and I will indicate the passage to the most knightly 
courtesy of which the times are capable.” 


A LOYAL PAPIST. 


59 


Thus speaking, he strode across the hall to a richly 
embroidered curtain which parted at the centre. This 
he flung aside and advanced into another apartment, 
followed closely by Rudolph. The embellishments of 
this room were, like those in the hall, without the 
effect of novelty to the young man. The like had 
been familiar to him from his earliest years. There 
were paintings and statuary representing the holy 
family in a variety of groupings; busts of noted 
churchmen, including Peter the Hermit and Godfrey 
of Bouillon ; and the portrait of a young mother 
with a child seated on her lap. Besides these, several 
small crucifixes were distributed about the room, 
while another of large size rested upon a platform 
evidently constructed for its support. Schwarzberg 
immediately led the way to this last object. Then 
stepping to one side, so that Rudolph would directly 
confront it, he said : 

** See you that truthful emblem of * Holy Mother 
Church,’ representing, as it does, the passion of the 
immaculate Christ? You have but to prostrate your- 
self before it, recant your most heretical views, and 
reassume the sacred vows you but recently discarded 
in order to regain my favor, without the slightest 
abridgment of the privileges you have hitherto 
enjoyed as concerning me and my house.” 

To this, Rudolph did not, at once, reply. His 
delay, however, was not due to vacillation. He was 
considering how best to meet this very unexpected 
ordeal so as not to place the object of his visit beyond 


6o 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


all possibility of accomplishment by intensifying the 
wrath of the man with whom he had to deal. 

And if I fail to act upon your suggestions, noble 
baron, what remains? ” he at length inquired. 

<< Nothing that will afford you happiness, or even 
safety,” was promptly answered. 

Nay, good seignior, it is very unlike you, as my 
memory serves me, thus to force one into a painful 
strait without permitting him a single plea in his own 
behalf.” 

‘^The Church can make no compromise with 
heresy. It has ears for argument upon all matters 
besides.” 

Then, friend of my father, if I am compelled to 
silence, permit the speaking face of that lovely child 
in the picture to plead for herself and me.” 

Ha ! did you recognize that ? ” cried the baron, 
in a startled tone. 

<*Yes. Instantly. How that tender and lovely 
bud prophesies the matured flower which blesses your 
house to-day. There is much of the mother traced in 
those lineaments, but I look in vain for any semblance 
of yourself, noble baron. It may be that this first 
view fails to comprehend the picture’s full strength.” 

Do your present circumstances affect you so 
lightly that you can thus turn aside to render an in- 
different opinion of a work of art asked the baron, 
with a frown, not relishing the comment, and, besides, 
being somewhat amazed at the presumption it in- 
volved. 

** You may credit the act to my weakness, seignior, 


A LOYAL PAPIST. 


6i 


if you will. But, be assured, there is no other object 
in sight which could so have diverted my attention 
from your design. Will you not heed her dumb ap- 
peals ? ” 

Verily, you make a toy of my leniency. Do as I 
will you should, and receive the abundant fulfilment 
of my promise,” urged the baron, again directing 
'Rudolph’s attention to the crucifix. 

‘‘Nay; though I crave a continuance of your re- 
spect and valued friendship, good seignior, I may not 
violate both my reason and my conscience.” 

‘ ‘ Then you refuse to comply with my desire. ’ ’ 

“ I cannot do otherwise,” said Rudolph, pensively. 
“Bethink you, noble baron, of the relation I sustain 
to your family. Your daughter is my betrothed; 
and I am persuaded that though she may adhere to 
her faith tenaciously, she will not thrust me aside be- 
cause our creeds do not harmonize.” 

“ You reason wildly, sirrah,” returned Schwarz- 
berg, irritably. “Know you not that she will yield 
obedience to my commands, perforce, if not freely? ” 
“She is at your disposal, doubtless. But let me 
suggest that hastiness, now, on your part, may lead to 
deep regrets in time to come.” 

“Ha — you prognosticate. But I will deal only 

with the present. Listen; I give you yet another 
chance to rectify your heretical defects and retain my 
good-will. It is of some import. ’ ’ As baron Schwarz- 
berg spoke, he again pointed toward the crucifix. 
“Methinks it belongs to sacred tribunals only, to 


62 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


hear recantations and adjudge heretics, good 
seignior,” ventured Rudolph. 

“Say you so?” cried the baron with a look of 
amazement. “ How weakly do you comprehend 
your danger and my good offices. Listen again. It 
is within my power to place you before a churchly 
tribunal, which would surely be the shortest road to 
Titelmann’s fagots; but the memories of the past and 
the hopes of the present have caused me to cover up 
your damnable defection. You will do well to re- 
member that I am not gracious beyond reasonable 
degrees.” 

“Then must our paths diverge, seignior, and I 
shall not presume to claim more from you than what 
solemn agreement has conferred upon me,” answered 
Rudolph, modulating his voice to a firm, though re- 
gretful, tone. 

“I apprehend. You refer to the bestowment of 
Christina. But mark, since you persist in this most 
nefarious course, I do here and now annul the com- 
pact. My child shall never wed the foe of her 
faith.” 

“You cannot thus cut me off with honor to your- 
self, baron Schwarzberg. Besides, my father, the 
count Rosenfeldt, has a right to be consulted before 
my claim can be rendered void.” 

“A fool’s argument!” exclaimed Schwarzberg, 
flushing with wrath. “ Verily, I deem myself guilty 
of error in heretofore rating you as being the possess- 
or of some slight degree of wisdom. But enough of 
this. You shall instantly depart, never again to cross 


A LOYAL PAP/ST. 


63 


my threshold. Follow me ! ” and the baron, 
trembling with indignation, re-entered the reception 
hall. 

** Take yourself hence without further parley ; and 
remember my generosity in letting you depart so 
freely,” he continued, as Rudolph emerged through 
the hangings. 

‘‘I shall not forget some things, at least, seignior 
Schwarzberg, and may, some day, have occasion to 
refresh your own memory respecting them,” said the 
young man, with dignity. Then, without heeding 
the contemptuous response hissed through the baron’s 
lips, he retreated from the house. 

‘^Gone as a dog with his bone,” muttered the 
baron. ** He contend against me ! Bah. Let him 
now learn what it costs to ” 

The baron’s soliloquy terminated abruptly. He 
retreated two or three steps, threw up his arms, and 
exclaimed in a smothered voice : 

“ Ha — Wolfgang Diefenbach ! You here?” 

** As truly as that you are amazed at beholding me, 
noble baron,” answered the person addressed, as he 
deposited a light bundle he had till then held, upon 
the floor at his side. 

Verily, you must have made a ghostly entrde, 
then — coming unheard and unannounced,” said 
Schwarzberg, in a calmer tone though evidently not 
well pleased at his visitor’s presence. 

** Which shows that you have vassals who know how 
to respect their master’s privacy and engagements, 
seignior,” responded Wolfgang. <‘But I will explain. 


64 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


You were closeted with another in an adjoining apart- 
ment, when I was ushered in, and the page who was 
summoned to announce me, finding that such was the 
case, and fearing to interrupt you, bade me await your 
leisure, if I could control my time. This, I assured 
him was within my power, and urged him not to 
attend me further ; whereupon he retired, leaving me 
alone. But my patience has, notwithstanding, not 
been put to the test, as the adornments of this room 
have quite beguiled my attention.” 

‘‘Yet, being so close at hand, methinks the sound 
of voices should have apprised me that someone had 
entered here.” 

“What! heard you nothing?” asked the visitor, 
apparently surprised. 

“Not the slightest disturbance.” 

“ That is, indeed, strange. There was no effort at 
concealment, I assure you, good seignior.” 

“ Well, let it pass,” said Schwarzberg, with a wave 
of the hand. “ I was strictly engaged, and not a 
little vexed withal.” 

“Surely something must have engrossed you quite. 
May I be pardoned for inquiring the name of the 
youth who but now took his departure, noble baron ? ” 
queried Wolfgang, as if yielding to a momentary freak 
of curiosity. 

“Faith, yes. He is the son of my warm friend, 
the count Rosenfeldt.” 

“ And the betrothed of your lovely daughter, as you 
once told me, if I mistake not,” ventured the caller. 

“ He was, until this hour.” 


A LOYAL PAPIST. 


65 


** Ah ! Then he has seen fit to relinquish ” 

** Relinquish ! ” was Schwarzberg’s astonished 
interruption. ** Nay, Diefenbach, he does not relin- 
quish. But I do.” 

** And she?” pursued Wolfgang. 

Christina yields obedience to my requirements, 
as you may readily assume,” was the baron’s prompt 
return. He paused a moment, and then added : 

** But you, doubtless, noted my interview with 
young Rudolph, in the next room.” 

** Indifferently, seignior. An occasional word 
reached my ears. The matter discussed I could 
scarcely trace. Nor do I seek to know it. Let us to 
business, for I shall justly incur your censure by a 
further trespass on your family affairs.” 

You have learned nothing of what you ought to 
remain ignorant,” said Schwarzberg, slightly inclin- 
ing his head. 

Your carefulness is commendable, baron,” was 
observed, blandly. ‘‘But, if you please, may I inquire 
if the baroness has yet returned from Leyden?” 

“ She has not.” 

“ I expected as much,” said Diefenbach. “ And, 
now, concerning the regent, Margaret. You have seen 
her, I presume, since we met at Weert.” 

“Yes, I have seen her and made known your desire, 
but without any positive result being obtained.” 

“She made no denial of my claim, then?” was 
asked, quickly. 

“ None whatever. Indeed, I mistrust that she 
fully appreciates it,” said Schwarzberg. 

6 


66 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Mistrust ? ” echoed Diefenbach, lowering his 
brows. Did you not urge her to a definite acknowl- 
edgment ? ’ ’ 

“ Marry, seignior, you little deem how matters stand 
with Margaret of Parma, if you can believe that she is 
always prepared to dispose of every item of duty as it 
comes to hand. Bethink you ; the country is in a 
most wretched condition through the hot-headed freaks 
of these sacrilegious Reformers, as they misname them- 
selves, and she has neither money nor troops to resist 
their arrogant demands, or quell the disturbances they 
create. She is, therefore, mentally, on the rack when 
their heads ought to be on the executioner’s block. 
Besides, she is still enduring some remorse of con- 
science for consenting to the accord forced upon her 
as a result of the field-preaching and image-breaking 
of a few months ago. You will, doubtless secure your 
rights, though there must needs be some delay.” 

“Faith, I am but poorly conditioned to endure 
delay, seignior. My requirements oppress me. And 
since the regent does not, because she can not, or will 
not act — whichever be true — I am forced to request a 
moderate sum from your own coffers.” 

“ Nay, seignior Diefenbach, it is less than half a 
year since I last replenished your purse with a large 
amount. These demands are becoming too fre- 
quent.” The baron spoke with flushed face, and as 
one who seeks to extricate himself from a very 
unpleasant dilemma. 

“You have no need for complaint, Schwarzberg,’* 
said Wolfgang, with a significant look at the baron. 


A LOYAL PAPIST. 67 

My services, or, rather, my silence, is in no danger 
of being over-paid.” 

The suggestion seemed to refresh Schwarzberg’s 
memory regarding some very important consideration, 
for, while his face expressed annoyance, he ventured 
no further objection to the request. 

What do you require ? ” he asked, after a brief 
silence. 

Ten thousand thalers will satisfy my present needs, 
seignior.” 

<< Ten thousand — present needs ! ” repeated the 
baron, as if exclaiming to himself. 

Come, noble Schwarzberg, it seems that your 
estimate of the honors and wealth you retain dwindles 
somewhat, since the amount I named surprises you so 
much!” and Diefenbach repeated his look of the 
moment before. 

I do not resist you,” said the baron, rising. 
** Tarry here, I will return presently.” 

** You are going for the money ? ” queried Wolf- 
gang, with something of menace in his tone. 

<‘Yes,” and Schwarzberg disappeared into the 
room where he had tested young Rosenfeldt, whence 
he passed into another, and, again, into a third, 
which was arranged for his exclusive use. 

Scarcely was Wolfgang left alone, when a door in 
the side of the hall opposite the curtains through 
which the baron had just gone, swung noiselessly open 
and Christina entered. Her coming would have met 
with a surprised greeting, had she not given the visitor 
a cautionary signal, which was instantly understood. 


68 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Ah, the lady Christina,” he scarcely more than 
whispered as he arose to his feet. 

“The same,” she replied. “But, if you please, 
let us dispense with ceremony, as I must be brief. I 
desire a favor at your hand, seignior Diefenbach.” 

“ Indeed ? What will you ? ” 

“You were present when Rudolph of Rosenfeldt 
was urged away, but a short time since.” 

“ I was.” 

“And you know the reason therefor, and how it- 
affects both him and me.” 

“ Perhaps.” 

“ Nay, you do know, friend of mine, as I believe 
you to be.” 

“ And if so, can I serve you ? ” 

“ Greatly. Follow him instantly, on leaving here, 
to the address written on this slip ; present him with 
the ring I now give you ; and say to him that, what- 
ever may result from his visit to his father, he must 
return to the inn where he is now lodging at the end 
of the next fortnight. I will have some one there 
awaiting his arrival to arrange for a meeting between 
us. May I rely upon you? ” 

“ Assuredly, lady. But your father ” 

“ My father must not gain the slightest clue to these 
proceedings,” interrupted Christina. “ He has 
decided to annul a most solemn engagement which 
has been ratified by both houses interested. I prefer 
that it remain intact.” 

“ I commend your courage. We have met but a 
few times, lady Christina, but I nevertheless regard 


A LOYAL PAPIST. 69 

your welfare sufficiently to meet your desire just 
expressed, and further, should you need my aid.” 

“You have my sincere thanks, seignior. Some 
day, I hope to express them as your kindness 
deserves ; but must forbear for the present.” 

As Christina said this, she made a low courtesy and 
retired as she had entered. Wolfgang bowed and 
instantly resumed the position he occupied when the 
baron went out. It was time. Schwarzberg was 
approaching. For reasons yet to be explained, he 
had a repugnance to Diefenbach’s society, and, so, 
lost not a moment in executing the business in hand, 
and which he could not safely thrust aside. 

“You are expeditious, good seignior,” said Wolf- 
gang, rising, and taking the draft the baron extended 
toward him. 

A slight bow greeted the compliment. 

“You know where to obtain the funds,” remarked 
the baron, coldly. 

“Faith, yes. And how to use them, also,” came 
from Wolfgang, as he moved to depart. 

“I trust they will be sparingly employed,” was 
replied. 

“At least, they will not be wasted, seignior 
Schwarzberg : depend upon it.” 

The next minute Diefenbach was on the street. 

“I must manage so as to get this craven into 
Titelmann’s clutches, else he will devour all my sub- 
stance. An axe for his neck, say I. He owns my 
secret, and, therefore, my safety.” 

So muttered the baron as he again passed the hang- 
ings to gain his private apartment. 


CHAPTER VI. 


A NEW FRIEND. 

R udolph, with a heart lacerated by various 
emotions, soon reached the inn. On gaining 
the room where Orange had awaited his coming, with 
anxiety, he flung himself into the latter’s arms, and, 
for a brief space, seemed without the power of speech. 
The prince needed no better assurance than this that 
his young friend had met a severe repulse. Never- 
theless, he expected and desired a full rehearsal of 
the scene which had taken place. This was not long 
delayed. It was no difficult task for Rudolph to 
reproduce his encounter with the baron in so clear a 
light that Orange could scarcely have been better 
informed had he been present when it occurred. 

The partial relief experienced by the young seig- 
nior at the end of his recital, came in flowing tears. 
Orange now encouraged the young man’s idea of at 
once repairing to his father. While his misgivings 
concerning the manner in which the count would 
receive his son, were by no means trivial, his hopes 
were much greater regarding it than those he had 
entertained respecting the baron’s action. 

** I will immediately prepare myself for the 
journey,” said Rudolph, when Orange had hinted 
that Schwarzberg might anticipate him in making 

(70) 


A NEW FRIEND. 


71 

his father aware of his changed views, and of the 
nullification of the marriage contract. 

‘‘Will you return to your disguise?” asked the 
prince. 

“I deem it my safest course,” was replied. 
“Remember, the baron gave me to know that he 
could easily transfer me to Titelmann’s custody, which 
means death ; and my disguise will be an admirable 
shelter should his malice urge him to such a use of 
his power.” 

“ You will act wisely in assuming it, I doubt not. 
But you will need a fleeter steed.” 

“I shall procure one on crossing the German 
lines.” 

“ Have you the funds for doing so? ” 

“ Thanks, yes. I am fairly well provided for all 
my needs. Will you tarry for me, noble prince, 
until I exchange habits?” asked Rudolph, as he 
turned to a side door. 

“Assuredly. I shall not leave here until you have 
taken horse.” 

“It is like you, my noblest of friends,” saidRosen- 
feldt, feelingly, as he disappeared from the room. 

The prince immediately gave his attention to a 
roughly sketched map which was spread upon the 
table at which he was then seated. This map had, 
evidently, afforded him some occupation during 
Rudolph’s absence. Scarcely, however, had he 
become engaged in its study, when a light rap at the 
main door of the apartment, diverted his thought. 


72 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


After a moment’s hesitation he arose and answered 
the summons. 

^‘Seignior, a person below desires an interview 
with the man who lodges in this room,” said mine 
host, with a very low bow as he recognized the 
prince. 

“He is occupied at present,” answered Orange. 
“ Did the stranger give you his name ? ” 

“ He did not, noble seignior.” 

“It is possible that I may have some knowledge of 
him,” and Orange motioned the host to lead the 
way, when they both descended to the main hall. 
The host pointed to the visitor and immediately 
disappeared. 

“ The prince of Orange ! ” said the stranger, in a 
deeply surprised, though muffled tone. 

“ What ! is it you, seignior Diefenbach? We have 
both met with the unexpected, if I know my own feel- 
ings and judge your utterance correctly,” responded 
William, in close imitation of the tone he had just 
heard. 

“ Faith, I trust the contact is not our misfortune,” 
said Wolfgang ; for it was indeed he. 

“Nay, friend Diefenbach, the times are so rife 
with untoward encounters, that two can scarcely meet 
and determine at the outset whether they will part 
with God-speeds or bloody brands. What siren’s 
precarious notes have lured you to Antwerp? ” 
returned Orange, as he extended his hand, which was 
grasped with hearty good-will. 

“ It was my fate, rather than my fault, noble prince. 


A NEW FRIEND. 


73 


which brought me hither. But be assured I have not 
come to test the temper of your blade, or tap the 
fountain of your life.” 

Marry ; our alliance of principles would never 
lead me to suspect you of such an intent,” said 
Orange. ‘‘ You are welcome here, I assure you, 
albeit it is a strange freak of fortune that enables me 
thus to receive you in behalf of a friend of mine.” 

“ Mean you he whom I seek?” questioned Wolf- 
gang, quickly. 

“ I so understand it, if it be young seignior Rosen- 
feldt.” 

It is, truly, noble Orange ; and right glad am I 
that you* and he are friends.” 

<<We are firmly bound as such, be assured. But 
let us ascend to his room ; you will see him ere long, 
I doubt not.” 

On entering the apartment, they seated themselves, 
at the suggestion of Orange, beside the table which 
held the map. 

Behold you, Diefenbach,” continued the prince, 

here is a board well spread with food for the hun- 
gry wolves which Alva is expected to let loose on his 
coming hither.” 

Faith, methinks he already scents these savory 
dishes, as Job’s horse does the battle, ‘afar off,’ ” said 
Wolfgang, adhering to the figure. Then, after sur- 
veying the map for a brief space, he added : ‘ ‘ But 
they should be poison to his taste.” 

“ Alas, I fear me that they will be devoured, in great 
part, without proving injurious to either him or his 


74 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


soldiery. ’Tis a sad thought, seignior Diefenbach, 
that this fair Netherland garden, which has been res- 
cued from the sea, is in danger of being overrun by 
the greedy pack which Philip is urging here to feast 
on innocent blood.” 

^<But, surely, there is influence enough in these 
provinces to awaken the populace and transform a 
hundred thousand stalwart artisans and yeomen into 
an impregnable wall against the despotic Spaniard and 
his sanguinary minions. You who are stadtholders, 
have the certain right to resist such unwarraiitable 
innovation. Where are Egmont, Horn, Montigny, 
and the rest? ” 

Wolfgang spoke with energy ; for, while no special 
interest bound him to the Low Countries, he had al- 
ways held their inhabitants in high esteem because of 
their genius, enterprise, industry, and hospitality. 
He knew, also, that in the hearts of the masses, 
more than in the subjects of any other realm beneath 
the sun, there burned a love of liberty, which only 
needed proper controlling powers to make it effectual 
in breaking every fetter, political and papistical, 
within the domain. 

Orange hesitated a few moments, and then said : 

** Nay, Wolfgang, do not probe me too deeply. 
There are questions which lam not now free to an- 
swer. Let this suffice for the present : there is as 
yet no method resolved upon for meeting Alva, and I 
know not if any such will be devised.” 

‘‘If not,” responded Diefenbach, “ then will each 
brave Netherlander become his own chief. The 


A NEW FRIEND. 


7S 


noble born, be he peasant or prince, welds not his own 
chains. I shall marvel much if Alva do not, in the 
end, go hence like a whipped cur, as should be his 
plight.” 

“ I fain would have it so,” said William. “ In- 
deed, he should scarcely find the time to reverse the 
movements of his legions for a return to Spain.” 

Then must you bestir yourself, noble prince. To 
await the slothful actions of the others may bode 
untold disaster, even though final victory be with the 
provinces.” 

do not stand aloof, good Diefenbach, of my 
own free-will. There is a weighty consideration 
holding me in restraint, which I cannot now di- 
vulge.” 

Marry; I hope it is not a morbid loyalty to 
Philip. As for his holiness, it is believed, so far as 
I can gather, that his demands affect you but slightly. 
But these aside. Whatever the restraining force may 
be which governs you, consider well, prince, that you 
are more potent in these provinces than all the other 
noble seigniors combined. The hopes of the masses 
will wax or wane as your movements may suggest.” 

‘‘ Nay, good Wolfgang, you estimate the disaffec- 
tion in terms too general. The populace is not a 
unit in opposing Philip’s scheme, especially here in 
the south. Take Brabant, where we now are, to- 
gether with Liege, Hainault, Flanders, Artois, and 
the rest of the provinces bordering on France and 
Germany; you will find that the majority of the peo- 
ple are intensely loyal to Rome, notwithstanding they 


76 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

deprecate the Inquisition, while a large proportion are 
ready to receive Alva with open arms.” 

<<This I acknowledge, seignior William. But, 
bethink you, foreign aid may Safely be taken into 
account. England has hewn her way to Protestant- 
ism, and would, doubtless, ally herself to such a 
cause as this of her next neighbor ; while, on the 
other flank, Germany would not be indifferent to 
your needs.” 

“The Reform would appeal in vain to Ferdinand,” 
replied Orange, moving his head negatively. “ Many 
of his subjects would, I admit, cheerfully assist the 
provinces. As for England, Elizabeth holds the 
reins of government with a strong grip, it is true; 
but she is politic, shrewd, and, I mistrust, somewhat 
tricky ; hence it would not be wise to enter a con- 
test relying upon her support, unless assured of her 
committal at the outset.” 

“ But might not this be obtained ? ” queried Die- 
fenbach. 

“Alas, a score or two of cross-purposes and entan- 
glements affecting — professedly, at least — State inter- 
ests, might, in their consideration, so delay her deci- 
sion, as to render it, if favorable, of but small value, 
since Alva would have used the interim to fortify 
himself all over the land.” 

During this reply of Orange, Rudolph quietly en- 
tered the room ; but halted immediately, as he did not 
wish to interrupt the prince. The latter, facing the 
door at which he appeared, noticed his presence at 


A NEW FRIEND. 


77 

once, while Diefenbach, whose back was toward 
him, did not observe it. 

But, seignior Wolfgang, I weary you with this 
discussion of a subject which, probably, does not 
interest you so deeply as it does me. Let us return 
to the object of your coming here. Know you the 
young man whom you seek? ” A meaning look at 
Rudolph, which led him to remain silent, accompan- 
ied the question. 

Diefenbach, though surprised at this sudden change 
of subject, made no comments concerning it, but 
immediately replied : 

Faith, no. Until to-day, I am not aware that 
we ever met.” 

‘^Or that such a person lived?” added Orange, 
inquiringly. 

O, I had known that, and, also, that he was the 
betrothed of the noble lady Christina.” 

^‘Were you long in his presence ? ” pursued the 
prince. 

Scarcely a minute.” 

*<Then you would hardly recognize him, even 
now?” 

Verily, seignior William, I boast of abetter mem- 
ory than that, even when it receives impressions from 
ordinary conditions. The circumstances of to-day 
were unusual. He was under great provocation.” 

“ Where met you with him ? ” 

** At the baron Schwarzberg’s.” 

<<Ah!” exclaimed the prince; but immediately 


78 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


continued : The young man informed me that the 

baron and he had a serious misunderstanding.” 

‘‘ Nay, noble prince ; we give other names to such 
encounters as the one to which I refer. I witnessed 
his summary ejection from the baron’s premises. 
You may christen the act to suit your whim.” 

What ! Then his appearance, in all respects, 
would, undoubtedly, be deeply fixed in your mind.” 

I could recognize him, seignior, among many 
thousands.” 

Indeed ? ” said Orange. Then directing his look 
slightly to the right of Wolfgang and resting it upon 
Rudolph, he added; ‘‘Well, friend, wish you to 
speak with some one ? ’ ’ 

Wolfgang turned, and Rudolph, suspecting the de- 
sign of the prince, advanced several steps, and re- 
plied : 

“Yes, seignior. If it be not an intrusion, I wish 
to speak with yourself.” 

“ Shall I retire, noble prince ? ” hastily asked Wolf- 
gang. 

“Nay, I think not,” said William, gazing inquir- 
ingly at the young man. 

“It is needless for you to do so, seignior,” replied 
the latter, answering both the question and the look. 

“You see, it is a matter of no especial privacy that 
brings him here, good Diefenbach,” came the well- 
dissembled response of the prince. “ Besides, as you 
go everywhere, it may be that you have met the 
youth.” 

Wolfgang surveyed the young man, who now stood 


A NEW FRIEND, 


79 

directly before him, from head to foot, and then ob- 
served : 

* * I have no recollection of such a person, seignior 
William.” 

** None whatever? ” urged the prince. 

‘‘None, I assure you.” 

“Marry; that’s strange. Look again ; for, unless 
I greatly mistake, you have spoken to me of having 
met with him.” ’ 

Again Wolfgang slowly surveyed Rudolph ; this 
time more carefully than before. 

“ I must disappoint you again, noble Orange,” 
he, at length, replied. “ He is an utter stranger to 
me.” 

“ Then does it become my privilege to make you 
acquainted,” said Orange, pleased with the complete- 
ness of Rudolph’s disguise. “ This, seignior Diefen- 
bach, is the sole surviving heir of my friend the 
count Rosenfeldt. He is the unfortunate who 
received the indignities, which you to-day witnessed, 
at the hands of baron Schwarzberg. ’ ’ 

Surprise alone prevented Wolfgang from interrupt- 
ing the prince before he finished. Even subsequent 
thereto, a few seconds were permitted to pass before 
he was prepared to express himself. 

“ Can it be possible,” he at length asked, “ that I 
have been so fully deceived? ” 

“It is true, friend Wolfgang,” said Orange, smil- 
ing. “But you must know that this by-play was not 
designed to make.,a jest of you, but was indulged for 
the purpose of testing my friend’s disguise.” 


8o 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


** Nay, no apology is needed, good prince. I com- 
prehend the ruse. But what signifies the disguise, if 
I may be so bold ? ” 

‘‘It is simply a shield to guard him against Titel- 
mann’s noose,” answered Orange. “ Hehasreceived 
some suggestions to-day which shadowed such a fate.” 

“ I remember. The baron Schwarzberg urged his 
claim to your gratitude for not denouncing you to 
that blood-besmeared tool of Philip,” said Wolfgang, 
addressing the young man. 

“You were present and heard him, then.” 

“ Faith, yes. I gathered nearly all that transpired 
after you and he passed beyond the hangings.” 

“ I saw you not,” said Rudolph. 

“Neither did the baron. Nor does he dream that 
I reaped so well as I just now indicated.” 

“ Your own head might be in jeopardy, did he even 
mistrust you had done so,” said Orange. 

“ That could scarcely increase his disrelish for me. 
He has much greater cause for sweeping me from his 
path. It is not his fault that I am not yet gibbeted.” 

“ Then you are not a loyal son of the Church ? ” 
asked Rudolph. 

“ Nay, seignior Rosenfeldt. There is little in com- 
mon between me and churches of any sort. I have 
my own creed, which is this : I despise and combat 
the Church of Rome because she is despotic and 
cruel, and I esteem and act with the Reformers because 
they contend for freedom. Beyond this, I have no 
interest in either side.” 


A NEW FRIEND. 


8l 


Such being the case, Schwarzberg has a most sat- 
isfactory basis for malice,” observed the prince. 

** Ah, seignior William, you know not the baron, 
if you deem him so loyal to his creed. He would 
purloin the treasures of his holiness to increase his 
own coffers, could he do so without detection. As 
for myself, I should be little surprised to learn that 
the Roman dogs were already seeking me.” 

* *■ If that be so, you stand but slight chance of 
leaving Antwerp undiscovered,” said William. 

** You anticipate no such ill-fortune for your friend 
here? ” queried Wolfgang. 

No ; since his disguise, as you yourself have 
borne witness, is so complete, even to his voice. ’ ’ 

Be assured, then, that mine will be an equal pro- 
tection for me.” 

Say you so ? I never knew that you thus shielded 
yourself,” responded Orange, looking his surprise. 

** Go to, seignior William. It is a privilege we may 
all exercise. But I crave pardon for neglecting the 
duty which urged me hither.” 

**True, good Wolfgang, you have a business affair 
with my friend Rosenfeldt, and I will withdraw,” 
said Orange, rising. 

**Nay, noble prince,” quickly responded Rudolph, 
*‘he can have nothing to communicate which I am 
unwilling you should hear. It has always been my 
good-fortune to have you near at hand when I needed 
wise counsel, and I may require your services at this 
time. Please remain.” 

The young seignior is right, friend William,” 

6 


82 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


said Wolfgang. < ^ The duty I have to perform will 
not prove a matter of indifference to yourself, though 
your interests may not be affected thereby.” 

Orange resumed his seat, when Wolfgang immedi- 
ately produced the ring which Christina had entrusted 
to his care, and gave the verbal message which was to 
accompany its presentation. Rudolph was deeply 
affected by the circumstance. Again and again he 
pressed the jewel to his lips ; smiled and wept simul- 
taneously; and could only control his voice suffi- 
ciently to speak in detached and broken sentences. 

You think me effeminate,” he at length said, as 
the idea of the appearance he presented came to his 
mind. ‘‘But, good seigniors, you cannot realize 
how much this means to me in my present position ; 
nor how greatly my tenderest feelings have been 
wrought upon within the last two days. Even the 
noble prince himself, whose love has held him to my 
side during that time, is scarcely able to appreciate 
all the strain I have been called upon to endure.” 

<<Nay — nay, friend Rudolph, we shall not permit 
you to apologize for that which is most natural,” said 
Orange, gently. “Expressed emotion is the mind’s 
truest portraiture. Am I not right, friend Wolf- 
gang?” 

“Faith, yes. And if my regard is worthy of 
account, seignior Rosenfeldt has increased, by these 
exhibitions of his emotions, my estimate of his noble- 
ness of soul.” 

“I thank you both, good seigniors, heartily, for 


A NEW FRIEND. 83 

your kindness. But this token reminds me that I 
must away.” 

What course will you take, seignior Rosenfeldt, 
to reach your destination ? ” asked Wolfgang. “You 
go to Germany, as I deem.” 

“Yes; and will take the shortest way, if there be 
a choice.” 

“ If I may advise you, let it be through Weert and 
Cologne.” 

“It is the best, undoubtedly,” said Orange, as 
Rudolph glanced toward him. 

“I myself am bound for Germany, and will join 
you at Weert, if it be to your liking,” suggested 
Diefenbach. 

“ Nay, you could scarcely please me better than by 
thus favoring me with your company,” said Rudolph, 
eagerly. 

“Then will I now depart, leaving with you two 
simple suggestions, to be estimated at what you may 
deem them worth. They are these : Do not pass to 
the street within fifteen minutes after I leave the hos- 
telry j and, do not be again seen together in public in 
Antwerp.” 

“ We thank you for so much, seignior Diefenbach. 
The importance of your last caution, at least, is appar- 
ent,” said Orange. 

Shortly afterwards, Wolfgang descended alone, 
while William and Rudolph peered from the window 
to note his departure. But, after waiting for some 
time without seeing him, they concluded that he had 
made his exit in some other way. 


84 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


The time now came for Orange and Rudolph to 
separate. Just how much that might mean to the 
latter, could not then be determined. When he 
returned to Antwerp, as he designed doing, at the 
end of two weeks, the prince would be somewhere in 
the northern part of the Low Countries, and it might 
be weeks, even months, before they again met. This, 
Rudolph felt, would be something of ' a calamity, 
should his father reject, or, worse, disinherit him. 
They could lay no special plans for the future, as it 
was not known what might result from the interview 
the young man hoped to obtain with his betrothed 
on his return. But part now they must, and did. 
It was an affecting leave-taking. All that Orange 
could conscientiously add to what he had already 
said in the way of encouraging his friend, was spoken 
in a manner which clearly evidenced his interest and 
love, so that when Rudolph mounted to his saddle, he 
had greater expectation of a kindly reception at home 
than he had realized since his return from Spain. 


CHAPTER VII. 


THE BENEDICTINE. 

W HEN baron Schwarzberg reached his private 
room, he threw himself into a quaintly 
carved and richly cushioned arm-chair and gave him- 
self up wholly to the thoughts and emotions suggested 
by the two interviews which had followed each other 
in such close succession. Neither presented a pleas- 
ing subject for meditation. In both cases, he had 
been a loser. He had parted, in the first place, with 
a prospective son-in-law, whom hitherto, he had es- 
teemed as a prize of great value. His loss, in the 
second instance, of ten thousand thalers, he regarded, 
notwithstanding his wealth, as a serious one. The 
fact that he had forced the first disaster, failed to 
diminish its importance, as he viewed it. The pro- 
posed alliance of his daughter with a family of such 
influence, wealth, and unquestioned nobility as that 
of Rosenfeldt, was a matter, to secure which, much 
sacrifice, had it been required, might well have been 
made. But however highly Schwarzberg may have 
valued this expected union, he apparently appraised 
it much below his estimate of the religious question 
that so suddenly intervened. Whether the import- 
ance attached to the latter was gauged by policy or 
principle would, to the world at large, have been re- 

(85) 


86 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


garded as an insolvable problem ; but no devotee of 

Holy Mother Church” could have pronounced it 
as simply a politic act without being suspected of 
heretical taint. Certain it was, the baron had rea- 
sons — good in his own view — for doing as he did. 

But while he deplored the circumstances which 
seemed to necessitate such a course with young Ros- 
enfeldt, he was no less disquieted by the considera- 
tions that clustered around his encounter with Diefen- 
bach. The amount of money he had felt compelled 
to give this man at that time was only relatively great. 
He had furnished him with funds, though not in such 
large sums as the present one, on several previous 
occasions. The fact that Wolfgang was gradually 
increasing his demands annoyed him not a little. But 
it was the necessity for these gifts, more than their 
value, which chafed him, and he was prepared to re- 
sort to any means likely to free him from such con- 
straint. This was not likely to be accomplished 
while Wolfgang retained the breath of life. The lat- 
ter, as already intimated, controlled the baron by the 
power of menace alone. He was the possessor of a 
secret connected with the darkest chapter in his his- 
tory. Who Diefenbach really was, or by what means 
he had obtained the knowledge referred to, Schwarz- 
berg was utterly unable to determine. Of one thing, 
however, he was assured, his tormentor had the facts 
in the case and averred his capability of proving 
them. Hitherto, he had not exercised his power save 
for the purpose of tapping the baron’s coffers from 
time to time, though he well knew that any demand 


THE BENEDICTINE. 


87 


he might choose to make would not be persistently 
resisted. Schwarzberg was as well aware of this as 
was Wolfgang himself. 

This thought, now that the rupture of the marriage 
contract had been effected, urged itself upon the bar- 
on’s attention with greater force than ever before. In 
a little time, it assumed such a hydra-like aspect, that 
he became terrified by its presence. It was not im- 
possible that Wolfgang might insist upon his renounc- 
ing his creed in order to secure some signal advant- 
age for himself. Besides, who could say that he 
would not, through mere caprice, or for some tangible 
reason, seek out young Rosenfeldt; bestow his sym- 
pathy upon him ; and, for a consideration, agree to 
compel a restoration of the alliance between Chris- 
tina and her lover. This view changed the tenor of 
the baron’s meditations. From contemplating what 
had been and might be, he passed to the pressing 
duty of arranging for what should and must be in 
order to secure himself against the foregoing possible 
contingencies. 

Schwarzberg thought rapidly and acted promptly. 
Five minutes later, a vassal was summoned who re- 
ceived a command in an undertone, when he imme- 
diately hastened from the room. In a little time, he 
returned accompanied by a dark-visaged Spaniard, 
who looked like a man of blood. 

‘^You will retire, Grison,” said Schwarzberg. 
The menial at once disappeared. 

‘^Senor Loandez,” he continued, turning to the 


88 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


stranger and addressing him in his own vernacular, 

I wish to see you for an important purpose.” 

^‘Name it, excellency.” 

Have you any knowledge of one Wolfgang 
Diefenbach? ” 

he a tall, straight, somewhat thin, though 
muscular man; wears long dark hair and a heavy 
beard and mustache ? ’ ’ 

^^Yes; and is usually attired in an assortment of 
garments that always suggests a mingling of classes.” 

^‘Exactly,” said Loandez. We are not ac- 
quainted, excellency, but I could identify him at any 
time. I think he seldom visits Antwerp.” 

^ ‘ Not often, it is true. He is here now, however, 
and pesters me so for money because of a favor I re- 
ceived at his hands some years ago, that he has be- 
come intolerable. But I could endure this were it 
not that he is constantly inveighing against the 
Church. He is not indeed a Protestant as the name is 
now used, nor do I understand that he cares for creeds 
at all ; still, it is evident that he heartily sympathizes 
with the Reform so far as it inclines toward the free- 
dom of the masses. He is, therefore, my enemy.” 

‘^And a fit subject for the Inquisition,” added 
Loandez. 

That is the point, senor. Can you introduce him 
to Titelmann?” 

Yes, faith, if he deign to remain in Antwerp a 
few hours longer, I will get on his track, which, you 
know, will be the best thing next to his execution.” 

<< Ay, marry, will it, provided he do not suddenly 


THE BENEDICTINE. 


89 

become invisible and give you the slip. But you will 
do your best, I warrant, and there will be a purse for 
your private use the moment he is dispatched.” 

** Thanks, excellency. I promise you promptness 
of action, and, unless I greatly err, speedy riddance 
of the troublesome fellow.” 

That is good. Be as expeditious as matters will 
permit,” said Schwarzberg, as he again summoned 
Grison. 

Loandez was shown out at a secret passage, and im- 
mediately began manipulating for the capture of Wolf- 
gang. Scarcely had he departed when the baron 
sought Christina. He found her in a perturbed state 
of feeling, though he did not question her concerning 
the cause of it. But the truth was, she had intention- 
ally overheard, not only what had been said during this 
last interview, but, also, most of what had passed during 
the two previous ones. As may be readily con j ectured , 
her nerves had been subjected to a severe strain, and 
she was, therefore, illy prepared to meet her father. It 
was something of a relief, however, to find that he 
did not revert to her condition. But he scanned her 
face closely for a few seconds, and then said : 

Christina, you will arrange for leaving Antwerp 
to-morrow at dawn.” 

“ Father ! ” she gasped, throwing herself forward, 
and meeting his cold look with one almost wild in its 
expression. 

*^Nay, daughter, the announcement need not so 
amaze you. Is it a strange thing that I should ask you 
to temporarily absent yourself from Antwerp.” 


90 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


*'Then I shall return soon?’’ queried Christina, in 
a relieved tone. 

‘‘ Circumstances, which can not now be indicated, 
will control your movements,” replied the baron, with- 
out changing his tone or manner. 

Christina’s emotion of dread was reawakened. 

Why need I leave here, father, or, at least, at 
present? ” she asked, nervously. 

Because I desire you to do so. You should know 
that I have sufficient reasons for deciding thus, and 
trust me to judge what is for your best interest,” 
and the baron turned to leave the room. 

May not my departure be postponed for two 
weeks, at least? ” pleaded the anxious girl. 

Why two weeks? ” asked her father, halting, and 
glancing over his shoulder. 

Because I — I have arranged — with friends con- 
cerning matters of interest,” came the hesitating 
reply. 

* ‘ And of importance, also, I presume, ’ ’ ironically 
added her father. 

* ‘ I pray you, father, do not insist upon my going. 
Your wont has been to indulge me in matters of this 
kind,” urged Christina. 

* ‘ And the fact that I do not now comply with your 
wish should evidence the necessity of the course I 
suggest,” was the baron’s unrelenting response. 

You will, therefore, act as I have indicated.” 

When her father had gone, Christina sank back and 
covered her face with her hands. What this most 
unexpected command implied, she had no means of 


THE BENEDICTINE. 


91 


determining. That he was aware that she had acted 
the role of eavesdropper, she could not believe. Nor 
did she, for a moment, suppose that he knew of her 
design to interview Rudolph on his return from Ger- 
many. Her only solution of the matter was that he 
feared some action of a clandestine character which 
would circumvent his nullification of the marriage 
contract and terminate in the celebration of the nup- 
tials. She was not astray in taking this view, although 
he had additional reasons for his course. He was 
apprehensive that with Christina’s presence in the city 
some misunderstanding might occur concerning her 
relations with young Rosenfeldt, which would com- 
promise the baron himself with the Church authorities 
and subject him to an espionage, the result of which 
could not be foreseen. Besides, it was possible that his 
plans for getting Wolfgang out of his way, might mis- 
carry, and come to the knowledge of the intended 
victim. Should such a condition obtain, he had good 
grounds for direful forebodings, such as involved the 
interests of his entire household. These things con- 
sidered, he deemed it fortunate that the baroness was 
absent, and, as shown, he intended, also, to place 
Christina at a safe distance. 

Perplexed, unhappy, and almost despairing because 
of this utter disarrangment of her plans, the disap- 
pointed girl spent a long time in mental conflict with- 
out scarcely changing her position. While, as she had 
expressed it, her father seldom interfered with her 
movements, she was well-assured that he would not 
now change his decision, and her easiest course would 


92 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


therefore be to make preparations for the journey. But 
here again she was bewildered. Not knowing whither 
she was to go, or what would be the duration of her 
absence, she was unable to decide as to the extent of 
her requirements. This was an important matter, and 
she was considering the expediency of seeking her 
father to obtain the needed information, when a low 
rap at the door, which she knew proceeded from her 
page, diverted her attention. 

Come in, Karl,” she said, softly. 

The youth entered, and approached to within sev- 
eral feet, when he stopped and waited for a signal to 
speak. 

<< What is it ? ” inquired Christina. 

If you please, father Volkmer, the German monk, 
has just entered and is engaged with the baron,” 
answered Karl. 

Indeed?” said Christina, with a somewhat 
troubled look, which, however, speedily changed to 
one denoting confidence. I wish, Karl,” she at 
length added, *‘that you could manage, unknown to 
your master, to inform him that I crave a few 
moment’s privacy with him before he departs.” 

I will do my best to aid you, lady Christina.” 

If you speak with him, suggest that he ask the 
baron for an interview with me. It will not be denied. 
Act cautiously.” 

With these instructions, the page disappeared. 

Now, this father Volkmer, to whom Karl alluded, 
was a Benedictine monk, whose form, bent to an angle 
of about forty-five degrees, and whose somewhat 


THE BENEDICTINE. 


93 


unsteady gait suggested an enervating infirmity. His 
face, also, was indicative of suffering, being traversed 
in various directions by shadowy furrows which gave 
it a spare and angular appearance. As a rule, when 
moving about, his arms were thrown behind him and 
clasped across the hips. This was apparently done to 
assist his locomotion. 

A few minutes previous to Volkmer’s entering 
Schwarzberg’s residence, Loandez, the Spaniard, who 
was fresh from the latter’s presence, met him scarcely 
more than one hundred yards from the hostelry which 
Rudolph Rosenfeldt was at that moment on the point 
of leaving. Loandez, with a most commendable show 
of reverence, saluted the monk, notwithstanding he 
had never, to his knowledge, seen him before. But, 
then, your churchly fathers have in all ages been 
deemed as public property, in certain contingencies, 
and expect to be frequently accosted by entire stran- 
gers, and accommodate themselves, so far as may be, 
to the needs of such as may claim their benisons. The 
Spaniard, however, had a more than ordinary object 
in view in accosting the monk, which will appear in 
the subjoined colloquy. 

<*Good father,” said he after his salutation had 
been acknowledged, you but now emerged from the 
hotel, if I mistake not.” 

‘^True, son, I did. What wouldst thou?” was 
responded, complaisantly. 

<< I seek one Diefenbach who, it is said, repaired 
thither but recently, and I bethought me that your 
reverence might have some knowledge of him.” 


94 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Verily, thou hast rightly guessed. I know him 
fairly. He is, I strongly surmise, an enemy of the 
Church.” 

It is true, holy father,” said Loandez, lowering 
his tone, and for that reason I am pursuing him.” 

‘‘Is it thy purpose to present him before the holy 
Inquisition?” inquired the monk, imitating the 
Spaniard’s cautious manner. 

“It is safe to admit that as my object to one who, 
like your reverence, must rejoice in any movement 
which tends to the destruction of heresy.” 

“Thou art a loyal son of the Church and doest 
well to reckon upon my sympathy. Dost thou act 
according to the direct commands of the regent, or 
art thou influenced solely by thine own zeal ? ” 

“Nay, good father, I neither receive my com- 
mission straight from our faithful Margaret, nor pre- 
sume upon my own authority, though I have a zest for 
the task assigned me. My office is to aid the devoted 
Titelmann, albeit my present effort is pursuant to a 
suggestion of that rigid Catholic, the baron Schwarz- 
berg.” 

“ Sayest thou so? ” inquired the monk, quickly, but 
without evincing emotion. “ I know him well ; and 
thou dost justly recognize his fidelity to ‘ Holy 
Mother Church.’ There will be a purse for thee, 
doubtless, if thou but cage Diefenbach.” 

“The noble baron did intimate so much, good 
father.” 

“ And he will verify thy hopes, I warrant thee. 
But thou wouldst not have neglected duty in the 


THE BENEDICTINE. 


95 


absence of such sauce, I opine. As for Diefenbach, 
I fain would recompense thy zeal by revealing him to 
thee on the instant. But this may not be. Still, I 
may help thee in a measure. He has left the inn, and 
I know he designs a visit to Brussels. Mayhap he 
even now journeys thither. And shouldst thou take 
horse and proceed with caution, good fortune, per- 
chance, will crown thy enterprise.” 

‘‘I thank you, holy father, for this much light, 
albeit it would have been better still to know that he 
had not yet departed, for then should I have been 
certain to bag my game. But I shall find his foot- 
prints, lead they to Brussels, or elsewhere,” said 
Loandez, indicating by his movements a desire to be 
gone. 

“ I bid thee God-speed, my son. But be thou pru- 
dent.” 

The Spaniard bowed low, and hastened to the inn 
to secure, if possible, more definite information. 

Volkmer resumed his course, moving leisurely in 
the direction of baron Schwarzberg’s residence, where, 
as already indicated, he was duly announced and 
received as a friend. For more than three years, it 
had been his custom to visit the baron’s castle in 
Germany. According to his own representations, he 
had been an associate in a monastery in the north- 
eastern portion of the realm, and, certainly, the cre- 
dentials he possessed satisfied Schwarzberg that his 
statements were reliable. In a few months after his 
first appearance, he was installed as father confessor 
to the household. Having thus assumed most inti- 


96 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


mate relations with it, his visits, as a matter of course, 
became much more frequent, and were valued in a 
corresponding degree. But notwithstanding the 
apparent confidence that obtained, on both sides, 
Schwarzberg was not disposed to make a complete 
revelation of his history to the monk. He was pro- 
fuse, however, in furnishing what, to a stranger, would 
seem very plausible reasons for every event of import- 
ance connected with his record, an,d he doubted not 
that father Volkmer accepted his representations as 
absolute verities. Whatever may have been the con- 
fessor’s view, he gave not the slightest indication that 
he mistrusted their correctness. 

It had been the baron’s custom for many years, to 
make an annual visit to Antwerp. During the present 
visit, the baroness arranged for dividing the time, as 
she had occasionally done before, between Antwerp 
and Leyden. The attraction which drew her to the 
latter city was a dear friend of earlier years, about 
her own age — a lady, like herself, of nobility and 
refinement. 

Now, father Volkmer made his appearance while 
the baroness was thus absent. It was the first time 
Schwarzberg had been permitted to greet him in 
Antwerp, and he was disposed to accord him a most 
hearty welcome. Volkmer expected this, though he 
had scarcely crossed the threshold, when he 
informed the baron that his stay must necessarily be 
a very brief one. This assurance surprised and some- 
what displeased Schwarzberg. But the monk assigned 
various reasons — which were recognized as important 


THE BENEDICTINE. 


97 


— for his speedy departure. He was immediately 
conducted from the reception hall to the baron’s 
private apartment, admission to which was seldom 
granted to any one, even members of his own house- 
hold. 

The conversation that ensued was, in a little time, 
devoted to the interests of the Church. The trials to 
which the regent was exposed, in her efforts to resist 
the encroachments of the Reformers, occupied a large 
share of their attention, while the anticipated coming 
of Alva was regarded by them as an event that would 
prove to be a panacea for all the ills to which the 
provinces were subjected, taking the Roman idea as a 
basis for the conclusion. 

A half hour passed in this manner, when Schwarz- 
berg, as if suddenly remembering his duty as host, 
said : 

“You will please pardon me, good father Volkmer, 
for my reckless omission in not yet offering you re- 
freshments. But the unexpected pleasure your com- 
ing afforded me, rendered me oblivious, for the time, 
to everything save your very agreeable presence. It 
has been a day full of discomfort to me, and I know 
not to what degree of melancholy I might have 
plunged had not you arisen upon my sight, like a sun, 
to dissipate the gloom. I will order wine, now, and 
ere long we will dine.” 

“ Nay, noble baron, I beg of thee, do not apolo- 
gize,” said the monk. “To be permitted to enjoy 
thy hospitality and excellent discourse thus far, were 
enough to invigorate me, had such been my need. I 
7 


98 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


will taste thy wine, however, when it is thy pleasure 
to set it forth. As to the good cheer my advent has 
afforded thee, let me say that I am doubly paid 
thereby for my journey thither. Our patron saint 
has, no doubt, led me here at the opportune moment. 
It belongs to our holy office as spiritual guides, 
Schwarzberg, to alleviate those who are spiritually 
depressed, and enhance, in every way possible, the 
well-being of those who seek our sympathy and 
admonition.” 

‘‘You prove your adaptability to your sacred call- 
ing, good father, by the love you evince for it and 
the zeal you manifest therein. Pardon my absence 
for a brief moment.” 

With these words, the baron disappeared from the 
room. Scarcely had the door closed behind him 
when another one on the opposite side was stealthily 
opened, and Karl, Christina’s page, entered. Casting 
a single glance around, he drew, with noiseless step, 
to the monk’s side, and whispering a brief sentence 
in his ear, departed as quietly as he had come. 
Volkmer’s first emotion was one of surprise, but he 
seemed, instantly, to surmise that there was a good 
reason for the movement, and simply gave an affirma- 
tive nod to the request made. 

The baron was absent scarcely a minute. Very 
soon after his return, the wine was brought in. When 
the two were again alone, the monk renewed the con- 
versation by saying : 

‘ ‘ Noble seignior, thou hast been pleased to refer to 
somewhat that has disturbed thy peace of mind dur- 


THE BENEDICTINE, 


99 


ing this day. May I not, as thy confessor and spir- 
itual counselor, presume to seek a knowledge thereof? 
It may not be beyond my capacity to relieve thy mind 
of its burden, or, at least, to bestow consolations 
which will enable thee the better to endure it.” 

“ Holy father, I do most sincerely thank you for this 
manifestation of interest. And, since I know that a 
secret intrusted to your keeping is locked from all the 
world beside, it will relieve me to acquaint you 
with these trials, while, at the same time, I bespeak 
your assistance, if such you may be able to furnish,” 
replied the baron, with the manner of one who re- 
gards himself as addressing a superior. 

“Right, indeed, art thou, Schwarzberg, in thus 
placing confidence in me. Thou hast done the like 
before ; but didst thou ever know me to betray the 
trust? ” said the confessor, who, it may be remarked, 
had the habit, or infirmity, it might have been, of 
expressing himself in a peculiar nasal tone. It was a 
defect, however, to which the baron had long since 
become accustomed. 

“ Nay, good father, you have never given me cause 
to even suspect your faithfulness. And in order that 
you may know how fully I confide in you, I will 
divulge minutely the matters to which I have referred.” 

The baron then proceeded to give the confessor a 
complete history of the circumstances attending his 
nullification of the marriage contract, and, also, of 
his relations with Wolfgang Diefenbach, together 
with the steps he had taken for securing the latter’s 
punishment. Volkmer, because of his familiarity 


100 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


with .the baron’s household affairs, was, of course, 
aware of the existence of the contract, but he was, 
apparently, greatly surprised to learn that it had been 
broken, and seemed highly indignant at the defection 
of young Rosenfeldt which had made such a course a 
necessity. As for the Diefenbach affair, he had pre- 
viously received some information concerning it from 
the baron, though believing he had never been fully 
advised regarding all its points. That Schwarzberg 
had arranged for Wolfgang’s apprehension, he had 
been informed, as already shown, by Loandez. But, 
for some reason, he now gave not the slightest inti- 
mation touching his encounter with the Spaniard. 

Thy promptness in dismissing young Rosenfeldt, 
noble seignior, is but another evidence of thy in- 
tense loyalty to our holy religion,” said the monk, 
with a show of satisfaction, at the completion of the 
recital. ‘‘Nor should thy jealous efforts to bring 
the reprobate Diefenbach to justice, be underesti- 
mated. Both these acts must challenge the admira- 
tion and elicit the approval of the Church.” 

“ I feel most happy in having humbly served our 
Lady to such an extent,” observed the baron, reveal- 
ing by look as well as word his satisfaction at the 
compliment bestowed. 

“ Thou doest well to thus felicitate thyself, worthy 
baron, and I would it were within my province to 
remain longer and share thy pleasure. But I have 
delayed, now, much beyond my appointed time; yet 
ere I depart, I fain would have a brief interview with 
the lady Christina. It may be that some counsel of 


THE BENEDICTINE. 


lOI 


mine will tend to reconcile her to this timely inter- 
ruption of her alliance with the youth who has so 
lightly estimated his churchly obligations. Thou 
wilt not deny me this privilege, I apprehend, noble 
Schwarzberg.” 

‘ ‘ Act as you deem most fitting, good father. I 
will await your return, and insist upon you doing full 
justice to my board before you go hence.” 

Saying this, the baron summoned a page, and 
directed him to conduct the confessor to lady Chris- 
tina’s room. 


CHAPTER VIIL 


A WELL-SHRIVEN DAMSEL. 

T he page retired immediately after having ush- 
ered father Volkmer into Christina’s presence. 
She had been prepared to receive him at any moment 
since learning that he would comply with her request. 

“ Good father,” she said, after an exchange of 
salutations, ‘ ‘ you know not how grateful I am be- 
cause of this generous compliance with my earnest 
desire.” 

‘ ‘ Nay, my dear lady Christina, dost thou think I 
could be so regardless of thy happiness as to come 
beneath the roof that covers thee and depart without 
even a look into thy fair young face ? I had designed 
seeking an interview with thee before receiving thy 
message. But that intention was to secure selfish 
gratification. Since then, I have been urged by a 
sense of duty as well. Thou art in trouble, daugh- 
ter. This I have gathered from some information 
which thy father has been pleased to bestow.” 

Truly, good father, I am in deep affliction. God 
alone can measure it. I myself scarcely dare attempt 
to trace its extent. I need assistance ; and feeling 
this need, I rejoiced with trembling on learning of 
your presence here. You can aid me, I trust, to a 
reconciliation to what seems to me so mysterious and 
( 102 ) 


A WELL-SHRIVEN DAMSEL. 103 


undeserved. I would not hold controversy with God, 
but this is a providence which I feel unable to sub- 
mit to or understand. I speak thus, deeming that 
you apprehend its nature.” 

*‘It is true, daughter, that I am fairly informed 
concerning it, and deeply do I deplore the necessity 
of the visitation. But dost thou think it has no hid- 
den meaning? Thou seest, now, but the shadowy 
garments of the angel that has crossed thy path. His 
bright form will appear ere long to render thy joy 
much more delicious, perchance, than any thou 
couldst have realized with thy former hopes un- 
crushed.” 

‘ ‘ Alas, father, whence can such a recompense 
proceed? ” asked Christina, in a despairing tone. 

Whence, but from God, daughter? But it must 
be as a recompense for thy submission to his will. 
Canst thou imagine that he will reward thee for sym- 
pathy with heresy ? ” 

<< I know that the Church deems all deviations from 
its behests as heresy. But, holy father, is the Church 
never at fault? ” 

What ! Dost thou question the righteousness of 
her creed ? Art thou, also, weakening in the 
faith?” 

I scarcely can tell, and, hence, need light. But 
how can these terrible deeds of butchery, which have 
come to my knowledge, be justified through any 
churchly canon or manifesto ? ’ ’ 

Lady Christina,” replied the confessor, in an 
impressive tone, and glancing around the room as he 


104 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


spoke, there be those, who, for these inquiries, not- 
withstanding thy father’s influence, would denounce 
thee to the Inquisition and compel a recantation, or 
the sufferance of a penalty commensurate with thy 
rashness. But listen ; thou hast a friend in me, and 
I pledge thee solemnly that no word which thou de- 
sirest to confide to my keeping, be it for or against 
the Church, or in any way connected with thy pres- 
ent or prospective welfare, shall ever pass my lips, 
unless it be thy wish.” 

“Thanks, father Volkmer, for such assurance. 
Yet it seems hardly right that I should use the privi- 
lege you so freely offer me, since my doing so might 
compromise and endanger your holy office and 
person.” 

In making this reply, Christina secretly wondered 
at the confessor’s very unexpected and certainly dis- 
loyal announcement. Nevertheless, it brought a sense 
of relief to her overcharged brain and heart, as she 
was feeling more and more, daily, the longing to pour 
into the ear of some sympathetic and trusty friend 
her growing misgivings regarding the polity and pur- 
ity of that Church which had always been portrayed 
to her as a model of perfection. She had not, how- 
ever, entertained the idea that father Volkmer would 
listen to any such statements without visiting upon 
her merited rebuke. Indeed, while she thanked him 
for the words he had just uttered, the thought that he 
might thus be seeking, at her father’s instigation, her 
real views concerning the situation in which she was 
involved, came to her with force, though she hid it 


A IVELL-SHRIVEN DAMSEL. 105 


under the concluding portion of her reply. But the 
confessor was mental alchemist enough to trace pretty 
closely the course of reasoning his declaration would 
cause her to pursue. 

‘‘It is quite fitting, daughter,” he said, after a 
brief hesitation, “that thou shouldst recognize in 
such language from me an element of danger, since 
it really exists. But, then, who shall betray me ? 
Thou wilt not, albeit I do not adjure thee to secrecy. 
And I need not say that I prize my own freedom and 
life too highly to witness against myself. Do not 
hesitate to trust me. I have spoken thus of my own 
accord, and not, as thou mayest suspect, in pursuance 
of the counsels of others. Thy present safety and 
ultimate success, may, in time, be regarded by thee as 
due to the methods which I have the ability to devise 
and operate,” 

‘ ‘ Alas, father, I have known so little of the decep- 
tive principle, which, I now have reason to fear, is 
polluting my religious environments, that every new 
revelation surprises and distresses me. Even the 
assurance you gave me, leads me to doubt your own 
honesty, hitherto. Pardon my plain speaking, good 
father, but I must be sincere, though my defects may 
be numerous.” 

“Be thyself to the uttermost, lady Christina. Do 
not dissemble an iota. As for my own course in the 
past, let me say it is a singular history. Thou wilt 
know me better some day, perchance ; and marvel at 
and rejoice over the work that I shall then have 
accomplished. But know this, now, I am the firm 


I 06 RUDOLPH OF ROSEJVFELDT. 


friend of young Rosenfeldt and thyself, and thy 
father believes me to be as truly his.” 

Are you not ? ” quickly interrogated Christina. 

Faith, daughter, that is a question which must go 
hungry for an answer. It will be satiated, however, 
when the measure of my dealings with him is com- 
plete.” As the confessor said this, he gazed into her 
face with an undefinable look, which was met by one 
of mingled perplexity and dread. 

‘‘Father Volkmer,” was responded, after brief 
hesitancy, “ you increase my wonder by these strange 
utterances, and, I will add, awaken my fears. Your 
evasion of my inquiry, or, rather, your refusal to 
answer it at all, leads me to suspect that you are my 
father’s foe.” 

“ Nay, do not jump at conclusions, daughter. The 
fact that there be reasons for my not replying as thou 
couldst wish, evidences not a contrary certainty. I 
would test thy capacity for heroic endurance, and, at 
the same time, relieve thy attachment to the baron 
Schwarzberg of its greatest tension, could I be assured 
of thy continued fidelity to what counsels I may deem 
needful for thee.” 

“Those words excite my curiosity, good father. 
You afford me no clue to their meaning. Have I not 
always given heed to your advice? ” 

“ Ay, thou hast. But now, since I have lifted the 
veil a trifle from my heart, thou mayest find it more 
difficult to continue thy confidence. How sayest 
thou ? Remember I have vowed to be thy friend. ’ ' 

Christina hesitated. A tremor ran through her 


A WELL-SHRIVEN DAMSEL. loy 

frame, begotten, in some degree, of the awe she felt 
because being, — as she believed — about to hear a 
most important, and, perhaps, unwelcome revelation. 
It is a human characteristic to shrink from, and yet 
be unwilling to brook delay in the announcement of 
a startling fact. That which appalls is, usually, sur- 
charged with the loadstone of attraction for the eye, 
or the ear. Christina was under such an influence. 
But she was sufficiently self-contained, not to allow it 
to coerce her blindly into a committal which, without 
its pressure, she would refuse to make. What was 
the secret in Volkmer’s life that seemed, now, on the 
eve of being manifested ? For several minutes this 
question interfered with her decision, while he, 
meantime, regarded her face with a penetrating, 
though kindly look. At length, she lifted her gaze 
from the floor, whither it had wandered, and, fixing 
it upon him, said : 

I will trust you.” 

*‘As I have done thee, in the disclosures already 
made?” 

<*Yes, father Volkmer'; the confidence shall be 
mutual in an equal degree.” 

‘*It is enough. But first consent to act upon this 
counsel: Let no change characterize thy demeanor 
toward thy father, save by my direction.” 

Another hesitation on Christina’s part. 

I promise,” she finally said. 

Nerve thyself, daughter, for the announcement I 
am about to make. It will demand thy best courage.” 

Christina’s face became somewhat pale; her lips 


I 08 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


quivered slightly, but she leaned forward, and, in a 
low firm voice, replied : 

am ready to hear it.” 

‘^And hear it thou shalt. It is this. The baron 
Schwarzberg is not thy father ! ’ ’ 

Though well-braced for the announcement as the 
young lady believed she was, she nevertheless found 
herself utterly inadequate to meet it. With an expres- 
sion which unrestrained by her pledge to secrecy, would 
have amounted to a scream, she flung herself against 
the back of the chair, buried her face in her hands, 
and, for some time, was without the power to utter an 
additional word. Volkmer sat regarding her with 
deep commiseration, not unmixed with anxiety. He 
heartily regretted the necessity for the course he was 
pursuing. But he must not hesitate in the path in 
which he felt that both justice and Nemesis were 
urging him. This was the first act in a drama whose 
denouement might be delayed for years. 

^ And — my — mother ? ’ ’ came from Christina, in a 
half-gasping way, after she had recovered somewhat 
from the shock received. The question was a clue to 
the thoughts which had occupied her mind during the 
interval of silence. 

She is, indeed, thy mother, lady. Be assured 
that thou art neither a foundling nor an adopted 
child under any conditions.” 

“Thank Heaven for that assurance,” responded 
Christina, in an energetic tone, though but little above 
a whisper. 

^ ‘ Thou art the legitimate child of noble parents. 


A WELL-SHRIVEN DAMSEL. 109 

daughter ; and, so far as thy mother and thyself are 
concerned, there is nothing that savors of reproach 
traceable.” 

‘‘'VYhy have I not been apprised of this galling 
truth before, father Volkmer ? ” 

‘^In order that thy young affections might twine 
the more closely about him whom, until now, thou 
hast honored as thy veritable father.” 

‘‘ Has there been no other reason ? ” pursued the 
young girl, closely scanning the confessor’s face as 
she spoke. 

Faith, it was never so given out, so far as my 
knowledge goes; but, then, as thou knowest, one 
may conjecture many things.” 

What mean you by that? ” 

^‘Verily, Christina, I can scarcely say what I 
mean. Nothing definite, perhaps. Yet, where there 
is a possibility of something clinging to a case beyond 
the known facts, invention will traverse the whole 
uncertain domain and coin mere fancies into respec- 
table probabilities which so closely resemble realities 
as to be often accepted as such.” 

*‘You lead me into greater darkness, rather than 
guide me to the light, father. Can you not be more 
explicit ? ” 

Nay, daughter, I cannot — at least, not now. 
The process of unraveling truth is often a tedious one, 
subject to interruptions and delays. Let thy patience 
control thy curiosity. Thou hast sufficient food for 
thought in what I have already revealed. Be con- 
tent to take one step at a time.” 


no 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Alas, I fear me there is something terrible yet to 
be divulged,” said Christina, shuddering. 

‘^And if there be, thou canst not divine its nature ; 
hence, thy wisest course is to regard that which is 
unknown to thee as being non-existent.” 

A silence of several minutes succeeded this reply, 
during which both were wrapt in profound medita- 
tion. To Christina, all the world seemed to have 
suddenly changed its complexion. She had been 
launched upon another life. The past was separated 
from the present by a broad, deep chasm from whose 
verge she shrank, yet into whose depths she was 
forced to gaze. 

‘‘Thou goest hence to-morrow, daughter,” said 
Volkmer, at length. 

“Yes; at dawn,” replied Christina, rousing, 
“and it was on that account I desired to see you; 
but our interview took such an unexpected turn, that 
the thought of going, for a time, escaped my mind.” 

“ Didst thou desire my assistance in any way?” 

“ Truly, I know not how you can assist me, father 
Volkmer, unless you can inform me of my destination, 
which I hoped you might learn from my — my ” 

Christina hesitated. Her eyes filled with tears. 

* < Nay — nay, daughter. Speak of him as thou 
wast wont. He is indeed thy recognized father, and 
the law so rates him. Thou must be wary of these 
traps, into which thy waning affection for him might 
lead thee, otherwise the knowledge I have bestowed 
may be betrayed. No act or address to him, on thy 
part, must be changed.” 


A WELL-SHRIVEN DAMSEL. 


Ill 


“I will endeavor to be prudent,” said Christina, 
recognizing the importance of the monk’s caution. 

*‘So do. And, now, respecting thy destination, I 
will s&y that I am advised thereof, but being under 
restraint at thy father’s will, I may not enlighten thee. 
Still, I can properly say that the distance is not so 
great as from Antwerp to the French frontier.” 

‘‘And in the same direction?” hastily inquired 
Christina. 

“ A pest upon thy quizzing, child. Wouldst have 
me designate the spot as it relates to the several 
points of the compass. I might say it is such a cer- 
tain distance from Brussels ; then might I name a 
certain other distance from Tournay, and still another 
from Mons, and thou wouldst deem it sure that Va- 
lenciennes was the point. But who would assure thee 
that thou wert right or wrong ? ” 

“It is Valenciennes,” said Christina, with the 
faintest shade of doubt in her tone and look. 

“ Said I not that thou wouldst so conclude? Yet 
thou knowest not that Bruges, Weert, or even Bergen- 
op-Zoom, is not designed.” 

“Nay, father Volkmer, your ramblings do not di- 
vert or entangle me. I still adhere to the first named, 
and shall arrange accordingly.” 

“Be it at thy choice. But thou must bear me re- 
cord that I betrayed not my trust.” 

“I will give you credit for most commendable 
fidelity, good father, and believe you equal in honesty 
to the average of those who attain to holy orders,” 


1 12 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


said Christina, who, notwithstanding her depression, 
felt somewhat amused at the confessor’s method. 

What ! wilt thou rate me so low, and, at the same 
time, so manifestly reflect upon the churchly dignita- 
ries whom thou hast ever been taught to regard as 
virtue embodied? Verily, daughter, thou driftest 
rapidly from the sacred haven of Rome. Luther, 
methinks, speaks more effectually through young 
Rosenfeldt’s lips than does his holiness through his 
own.” 

‘‘Do not hasten to judgment, father Volkmer. I 
seek the truth, if, haply, I may find it.” 

‘ ‘ Nevertheless, thy human passion is stronger than 
thy saintly creed. Rosen feldt holds thee with a firmer 
grasp than do all the successors of St. Peter com- 
bined.” 

“Nay, in those words, father, you imply condem- 
nation for many who have been most worthy.” 

“ Faith, I think those thou indicatest may all be 
classed among the ‘ have beens ’ ; for I opine that but 
little of worth remains in the Church at this period, 
from Tetzel, with his indulgences and money-bags, to 
Titelmann, with his neck-cleaver and noose. But I 
remain here too long. Thou hast been well-shriven, 
daughter, though the process has varied .somewhat 
from the Church canons. Hold thy courage firm. I 
will see thee in thy changed abode. Farewell. The 
viands of the baron’s board await my appetite.” 

Volkmer received from Christina renewed expres- 
sions of gratitude for his visit and its results, and 
then withdrew. 


A WELL-SHRIVEN DAMSEL. 


II3 

When Christina resumed her seat, she gave herself 
up to most intense reflection. The confessor was 
right when informing her that she would have suffi- 
I cient food for thought. But she found it not alone 
in the startling announcement he had made concern- 
ing her parentage. This, though of extreme import- 
ance, did not receive her immediate attention. She 
passed over it to the contemplation of her informant. 
From being what she had all along, since his first 
visit, regarded as a plain, honest father confessor of 
the order of St. Benedict, he had expanded, in her 
view, into such an impenetrable mystery that she 
could discover no clue to his real character. There 
was but one thing which seemed to impress her as 
being actual truth ; he knew much of the past history 
of him whom she had always considered her natural 
father. But whether he was his enemy, or his 
friend; whether he was a relative, or not; whether 
he was seeking vengeance, or justice, or, as he had 
slightly intimated, both; or was acting without 
special motive, were problems she was unable to solve. 
She was not prepared to doubt his connection with 
the brotherhood he professed to represent, nor could 
she, since his heretical sentiments of that hour, feel 
entirely confident that he was allied to any monastic 
order. He had assured her that time would reveal to 
her perception matters which were now dark and 
impenetrable. But would he reveal himself? It was 
a question she could not answer. Her only course 
was to await promised developments, and be prepared 
to meet them with fortitude and resignation. 


CHAPTER IX. 


A TIMELY DISCOVERY. 


HE journey of Rudolph Rosenfeldt was a tedious 



1 one. A fleeter steed would have been a signal 
relief. He did not reach Weert until the second day 
after leaving Antwerp. Nothing of importance 
occurred during his course thither, unless his own 
thoughts be excepted, which were certainly of absorb- 
ing interest to him. Having arrived late in the day, 
his first act was to secure accommodations for him- 
self and beast during the night. He then proceeded, 
in a quiet way, to ascertain if Diefenbach had yet 
entered the place. But nothing definite rewarded his 
effort. Hoping for better success in the morning, he 
retired at an early hour to seek the rest and recupera- 
tion he had failed to secure by the meagre accommo- 
dations afforded him at the hamlets where he had 
spent the two previous nights. Long before the 
dawn, however, he was awakened by the heavy tramp- 
ing of several persons, as it seemed, ascending the 
stairs, the landing of which was but a few feet from 
the room he occupied. On reaching the floor, the 
party drew near until almost opposite his own door, 
when it halted. 

“This is the room, senors,” said one, whose voice 
Rudolph instantly recognized as that of the host. 


(1 14) 


A TIMELY DISCOVERY. 115 

He could, also, hear the words distinctly, as there 
was an opening above the door of each sleeping apart- 
ment, not unlike those made at the present day to 
receive transom lights. 

“We shall need it but two or three hours,’* 
answered another. * ‘ Who occupies the room on this 
side?” 

“A young Spanish peasant.” 

‘ ‘ Indeed. Then he and I are countrymen. Know 
you where he is from ? ’ ’ 

“Antwerp, as I take it,” replied the host. 

“Verily, he and I have been governed by the 
same fancy.” 

“You mean in coming to Weert ? ” 

“Yes; and seeking quarters beneath your roof.” 

“Ay, marry; but the objects sought in the two 
cases may be vastly different,” interposed another 
member of the party. 

“ I am not aware of his object ; nor of yours, for 
that matter,” said the host. 

“Faith, I think so,” responded the first guest. 
“ But you might assist us somewhat in attaining ours.” 

“It is possible, did I know it.” 

“Describe the man we seek, Loandez. Nothing 
further will.be necessary,” suggested the remaining one 
of the three new-comers. 

Loandez, who will be recognized as the Spaniard 
whom baron Schwarzberg called to his aid for the 
purpose of disposing of Wolfgang Diefenbach, then 
proceeded to describe the person sought. Of course, 
Wolfgang was the individual. 


Il6 'RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


During the above conversation, which was held in 
a subdued tone, Rudolph noiselessly left his couch 
and took a position close to his room door. He lost 
scarcely a word of what passed on the outside. The 
description just given startled him. What these men 
designed in thus seeking his friend, as he rightly 
judged him to be, was a matter he could not under- 
stand, since he was ignorant of the action the baron 
had instituted for apprehending him. His only 
course, therefore, was to be on the qui vive for further 
developments, in the hope that some word would give 
him a clue to their object. 

“I can furnish you with no assistance whatever,” 
said the host, when the Spaniard had finished his por- 
trayal. “ Such a person has never been in my house, 
so far as I have any recollection. ” 

Then we have no need of you, save that you fur- 
nish us at once with a liberal supply of wine,” replied 
Loandez. 

Certainly, senor. But you must pay for it when 
brought,” returned the host, with a broad smile. 

Marry, we are not thieves, that you should 
demand payment so promptly,” came from Loandez, 
in a nettled tone. 

<‘Nay, verily, good friends. But such is my rule 
with strangers. Before I made it, I lost heavily on 
several occasions by easy dealing with hap-hazard 
customers. To give you an instance, let me state the 
case of two Germans who arriyed one stormy night 
just after ” 

^‘Beshrew your Germans, fellow! What care we 


A TIMEL Y DISCO VER Y. 


II7 


for your stale accounts. I will pay now rather than 
risk the recital of a long story,” said Loandez, petu- 
lantly. 

^‘Na,y, senor; the story is a very short one, I 
assure you,” replied the disappointed host, who was 
much given to dilating upon his losses, when he 
could find any one willing to listen. 

Faith, a dozen more words would make it insuf- 
ferably long. Bring the wine, worthy host, and put 
this money in your strong till, so that a year hence, 
you will not begin a new version of this story by say- 
ing that * three Spaniards arrived early one morning.’ ” 

*•' It is too much pay, by far, good senor, unless 
you design a most unseemly debauch,” was the host’s 
response as his eager look alternated between the face 
of Loandez, and the money he held toward him. 

Say you so? It is a brave knave who dares be 
honest in the sure path to fortune. Debauch, indeed. 
Our business is too pressing for the indulgence of 
such foolery. Get the wine — get the wine ! A 
goodly draught for each.” 

Without further parley, the host opened the door 
of the first room he had designated, and motioned 
Loandez and his companions to enter it. This they 
did as he hastened away to comply with the demand 
made. 

In a few moments, the wine was brought, and the 
host again retired. The trio, left to themselves, dis- 
cussed the object of their coming and their potations 
at the same time. They were careful, however, in 
their expressions, to suppress all names connected 


Il8 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


with the enterprise in hand, though they evidently 
took no account of the apertures above the several 
doors opening into the hall. Owing to this fact, 
Rudolph, while at a greater distance from them than 
before, was enabled to glean enough of their conver- 
sation to assure him that they were pursuing Diefen- 
bach with evil intent, and he was quite confident that 
Schwarzberg was the instigator of the plot, whatever 
that might be. With his curiosity thus satisfied, his 
fears at once awakened. 

That Wolfgang had already reached Weert, was 
evident from the fact that, these men were pursuing 
him. How many there were connected with the 
party, he had been unable, definitely, to learn, 
though he guessed the correct number by the sound of 
the different voices. He dreaded lest they might 
execute some stratagem and entrap their intended 
victim before an opportunity was afforded him to 
checkmate such an effort. His course was quickly re- 
solved upon. He would wait until the pursuers were 
overcome by sleep, and then steal noiselessly out, 
secure his horse from the groom, and visit every inn 
in the city, if need be, in order to discover his friend. 

But, much to Rudolph’s disappointment, the 
Spaniards either felt no need of slumber, or were de- 
termined to remain awake so as to renew their search 
with the first streaks of day. He listened patiently 
for more than an hour, before their conversation be- 
gan to flag. At length, after many additional 
minutes had passed, the heavy breathing which came 
from the room opposite, convinced him that his de- 


A TIMELY DISCO FEE y. 


1 19 

parture would be unnoticed by them. He had already 
prepared to leave, and a few seconds later found him 
rapping at the door of the groom’s apartment. His 
signal being responded to, he paid his bill — a matter 
which was not accomplished without sundry questions 
on the part of the stable dignitary relative to his pre- 
mature exit — and was soon traversing the . streets. 
Now, however, another obstacle threatened him with 
defeat. In his anxiety to gain time, he had not con- 
sidered that it would be as difficult, at that hour, to 
ascertain who were guests at the other inns, as it 
would have been in the one he had left, as hotel 
registers were not used in that age. He could gain 
admission easy enough, had that been his object. 
The mistake became evident at the first place where 
he plied his inquiries. He must wait until it was 
light. Though the air was chilly, Rudolph deter- 
mined to pass the remaining two hours on his horse, 
rather than again seek shelter. 

At length the morning broke, and he renewed his 
efforts to find Diefenbach. But he was frustrated 
until he stopped for the third time. Here, his de- 
scriptions and inquiries met a favorable response. 
The landlord, however, was at first unwilling to sum- 
mon his guest, urging, as an objection, that he had 
arrived late, was, evidently, very weary, and needed 
repose. But Rudolph overcame his scruples by rep- 
resenting the importance of his business with the 
person sought. 

“ Who shall I say desires to see him? ” asked the 
host. 


120 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


** The young Spaniard whom he agreed to join at 
Weert," was replied. 

The host disappeared, but was back in three 
minutes, when he directed Rudolph to follow him. 
After ascending a flight of stairs and traversing a 
somewhat lengthy corridor, he was ushered into the 
room Wolfgang occupied, and they were left alone. 
The latter, during the host’s absence, had donned his 
attire, so that when the young man entered he was 
not only prepared to welcome him, but, also, ready 
to act as circumstances might require. 

^‘I am extremely glad that I have found you,” said 
Rudolph, after an exchange of civilities. 

‘‘For other reasons than that we meet to journey 
together?” inquired Wolfgang. 

“You will so decide, I think, after my story is 
told.” 

‘ ‘ Say you so. Then am I prepared to hear it with- 
out delay.” 

Rudolph then related what he knew concerning the 
pursuing party at the inn where he had lodged. 

“ Verily, they are eager wolves,” said Diefenbach 
at the end of the recital. The intelligence, however, 
failed to beget within him the least feeling of trepi- 
dation. On the contrary, he seemed to relish it 
somewhat, since it promised something in the way of 
adventure. But he was, in a measure, solicitous on 
Rudolph’s account, as he was ignorant of his qualifi- 
cations for defending himself, in case they encoun- 
tered them. 


A TIM EL Y DISCO VER V. 


I2I 


**Have you weapons, seignior Rosenfeldt ? ” he 
finally added. 

I have a stiletto which was given me at Madrid, 
and a pistol, one of the first ever made, that I bought 
in London during a short visit thither from Spain.” 

** Know you how to use the latter? ” 

‘‘Yes; indifferently well.” 

‘ ‘ Both the implements may serve us a turn, should 
we need to defend ourselves. But, after the first shot 
in close contact, we would require something more 
trusty than either. How rank you in sword exer- 
cise ? ” 

“ Thanks to my noble friend, the prince of Orange, 
I can boast of fair acquirements in the use of that 
weapon.” 

“But you have none.” 

“True. It is my misfortune, under present cir- 
cumstances.” 

“ One must be procured, then ; unless you object.” 

“ I ! O, no. If we are likely to be molested by 
those Spaniards, or any other nefarious assailants, I 
desire to be prepared for my share of resistance.” 

“ Good,” said Wolfgang, looking, as well as 
uttering his satisfaction. “ What sort of a steed do 
you ride, seignior Rudolph ? ” 

“ Faith, a frame-work of bones,” replied the young 
man, smiling. 

“ And his speed ? ” pursued Diefenbach. 

“ Would equal that of a tortoise,” was answered, 
facetiously. 


122 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


** Which means that aught more agile would dis- 
tance him, I suppose.” 

“ Yes. There are few things which travel that he 
could leave behind,” said Rudolph. 

Marry; you should be better provided,” re- 
marked Wolfgang, thoughtfully. ** Have you the 
means for purchasing another ? ” 

I am well able to do so, good Diefenbach, and 
will trust you to make the selection.” 

Thanks, for so much confidence. And now, 
since nothing further will be necessary, let us proceed 
below, and break our fast.” 

<< Will it not delay us too long? ” asked Rudolph, 
in a doubtful tone. 

** It will be ready for us instantly. I instructed the 
host to have it prepared for any moment,” said Wolf- 
gang. Then, taking up the bundle which he invari- 
ably kept near him, he led the way down-stairs. 

At the end of fifteen minutes, Wolfgang ordered 
his horse to be brought out. When they emerged to 
the street, it was sunrise. As the two steeds stood 
ready for their riders, they presented a most ludicrous 
contrast. A knot of men had collected about them, 
praising the beauty of Wolfgang’s and ridiculing the 
famished appearance of Rudolph’s. 

I say, fellow,” cried one of them, as the latter 
was about to mount to the saddle, be it possible to 
buy that skeleton? ” 

“Yes, truly,” responded Rudolph, turning, with 
one foot in the stirrup. 

“ How rate you him? ” 


A TIMELY DISCO FEE y. 


123 


. ‘‘ He shall go for five thalers.” 

Wolfgang felt amused. The by-standers became 
silent, anxious to learn what would result from the 
offer. As for the man who had done the questioning, 
he had had no thought of driving a bargain ; but the 
answers to his railing inquiries, indicated such a rare 
opportunity, as he deemed it, for making an addition 
to his purse, that he was disposed to indulge his pro- 
pensity for speculating, and, hence, became seriously 
interested. After a few moments’ examination of the 
beast, he replied : 

I will give you three thalers for him.” 

** He is yours,” said Rudolph, promptly. 

A laugh all around greeted the announcement. 

This reply was so unexpected to the would-be-pur- 
chaser, that he scarcely knew what to say, but stood 
with mouth agape, glancing alternately from Rudolph’s 
face to the horse. He soon found his voice, however, 
and asked : 

Is the old jade sound ? ” 

Marry ; as sound as a drum. I can answer that,” 
interposed Wolfgang. 

** And as empty as one,” added a by-stander. 

‘‘Nay, good friend,” said Rudolph, “be not 
annoyed by these pleasantries. The animal is, I 
believe, free from disease, and needs but a few days’ 
rest and proper grooming, with good provender, to 
make him fairly marketable, or fit him for your own 
use, if you should so elect.” 

A few further questions and answers resulted in the 
sale being effected. 


124 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

This done, Diefenbach and the young man moved 
away — the former mounted, while Rudolph walked at 
his side. When they were again free to converse 
without drawing attention, Wolfgang referred to a 
friend of his a trifling distance from the town, of 
whom he was confident a good steed, with the neces- 
sary accoutrements, could be procured, and they 
decided to visit him. But Rudolph required a sword. 
This might be more difficult to obtain than a horse. 
After a few inquiries, however, they were directed to 
an armorer, doing business in a small way, and to him 
they applied. Though the smith had no weapons 
which, in all respects, met Rudolph’s desire, he 
purchased the best one in the place, paying a good 
round sum therefor in solid thalers. 

Wolfgang’s friend, to whom they immediately there- 
after repaired, did not disappoint his expectation. He 
possessed several steeds, each one of which would 
have met Rudolph’s desire. It was but the work of a 
few minutes to effect a purchase, when, without further 
delay, the two travellers started forward with their 
faces in the direction of Cologne. 

In order to embarrass, and, if possible, mislead, the 
Spaniards who were pursuing him, Wolfgang resolved 
upon a circuitous route ; for, while he was not 
especially anxious to evade them altogether, he pre- 
ferred not to meet them until he had passed the 
Meuse and entered Germany. This would require a 
ride of twelve or fifteen miles — a distance which 
could be covered inside of two hours. But little was 
said by either, as they pushed forward with rapid pace. 


A TIMELY DISCO FEE K 


125 


The river was reached, and they were ferried over 
within the time indicated. From this point, they 
moved forward more moderately, conversing freely, 
though not omitting to keep the ground over which 
they had passed under close surveillance. 

Though it would not have been impossible for them 
to have made the entire journey from Weert to Cologne 
in a single day, they were not disposed to put their 
steeds to such an unnecessary strain, or subject them- 
selves to the discomfort of so long a ride. Late in the 
afternoon, therefore, they dismounted at a small vil- 
lage to remain until morning, having traversed two 
thirds of the distance to the Rhine. The entire terri- 
tory through which this river passes from Cologne to 
the sea, is almost perfectly level. Above the city, 
however, its banks begin to assume that picturesque 
beauty of scenery which has attracted tourists from all 
parts of the world. At the period referred to, the 
heights which overlook the noble stream were dotted 
with stalwart castles, almost impregnable, around and 
below which clustered hamlets of greater or less 
extent, whose inhabitants were still governed, in the 
main, by the old feudal system which for centuries had 
maintained secondary control throughout the countries 
of Europe. At the present time most, if not all of 
those castles, are in ruins, but the heights themselves 
still, as of old, 

** Frown o’er the wide and winding Rhine,” 

and their associations are of deep interest to the sight- 
seer and archaeologist. 


CHAPTER X. 


THE CONTACT. 

S HORTLY after sunrise on the following morning 
Rudolph and Diefenbach resumed their journey, 
and an hour before noon, entered Cologne. Here, 
Wolfgang, who had some private affairs to attend to, 
separated, for a time, from his companion. Rudolph 
now felt that he was almost at home. The city, which 
he had frequently visited, was less than fifty miles from 
the northwestern boundary of the duchy of Nassau, 
in which his father’s estate was located. 

Up to this time he had continued his disguise. 
But he now deemed it his best policy to cast it aside. 
The garments he had purchased at Antwerp, having 
been purposely left behind, he was compelled to pro- 
cure others. This was not a difficult thing to do, 
though it would have been more to his liking to have 
had them fashioned to his taste. But his anxiety to 
learn what was to be his fate at home, forbade the 
delay such a course would necessitate. Having made 
his selections, he repaired to the place fixed upon 
for rejoining Wolfgang, and substituted the new 
garments for his Spanish costume. When Diefenbach 
returned, which was soon afterwards, he was both 
surprised and pleased at the change. 

They give you a somewhat better appearance,” 
(126) 


THE CONTACT. 127 

he said, than those you wore when I saw you at the 
baron Schwarzberg’s.” 

Faith, nothing, I opine, could have made me 
appear well under those circumstances. These will 
do, albeit they fail to harmonize as I could desire,” 
replied Rudolph, glancing over his outfit. 

“You will accommodate yourself, fully, I doubt 
not, when once within your father’s castle,” was 
responded. 

* * Alas, good friend ! my fortunes there are, as yet, 
a bird in the bush. I know not what will transpire,” 
said the young man, sadly. 

“ But you will know, ere long ; and I hope it will 
be to learn how groundless have been your fears.” 

“ I share that hope with you, seignior, and am 
greatly anxious to ascertain its value. Have you 
dispatched your business ? ” 

“ Yes ; so far as my present needs are affected 
here. The rest must be settled at Coblentz.” 

“ Then we are ready to go forward. Is ’t not so ? ” 
asked Rudolph. 

“If you are prepared,” responded Wolfgang. 
“We have given Cologne three hours of good,day- 
light ; and this rest secured to our steeds will enable 
us to continue longer on the road.” 

“ We can make a fair advance by night, if we 
choose,” said Rudolph. “ Let us go.” 

In five minutes, they were again mounted, and, 
crossing the river to the eastern side, took a southerly 
direction along its banks. 

As nothing had been seen or heard of Loandez and 


128 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


his associates since leaving Weert, the two travelers 
had about concluded that they had either been misled, 
or given up the chase. This, however, was a mistake. 
During the previous night, the Spaniards had passed 
through the place where Rudolph and Wolfgang had 
halted. But they had been careful to make inquiry, 
in a quiet way, concerning the object of their pur- 
suit, and, finding that he and a companion were 
lodged there for the night, had pushed on a dozen 
miles further. After taking a few hours’ rest, they 
were again on the road. Before reaching Weert, 
their design had been to intercept Diefenbach west of 
the German boundary. But the knowledge Rudolph 
had gained of their movements had frustrated this 
scheme, and, having thus missed their chance, they 
decided to hasten forward to Cologne, confident that 
it was the objective point. There they would abide 
their opportunity to seize him clandestinely and 
return him to Antwerp. Fortune seemed to favor 
them in this course, since, as shown, they gained the 
lead, and anticipated the arrival of the two travelers 
at the former city, by several hours. 

As neither Loandez, nor his companions, were 
known to Wolfgang or Rudolph, they could openly 
pursue their plans without fear of exposure. Hence, 
they stationed themselves severally at the roads 
entering the city from the west and awaited the 
advent of their intended victims. Their method was 
successful, and the two were subsequently kept under 
close surveillance until within a half hour of the 
time when they left the city. During the interim. 


THE CONTACT. 


129 


one of them had actually accosted Wolfgang, for a 
feigned purpose, and adroitly drew from him a hint 
as to his destination and hour of departure. Acting 
upon this, the Spaniards again took the lead, with the 
intention of waylaying and capturing their man, con- 
cluding that, even if there should be two to contend 
with, the chances were in their favor. 

Rudolph and Wolfgang sped on at a rapid gait, 
following the highway nearest the river. Their 
course was necessarily a tortuous one, owing to the 
hilly character of the country. A ridge, over two 
hundred feet in height, which terminated abruptly at 
the river and extended back several miles, arose 
before them. Over this the road had been constructed. 
The passage was a zigzag one almost to the summit, 
when it gradually wound through a defile, whose 
sides, though precipitous, were not lofty, and at the 
end of a dozen rods, took a sudden turn to escape a 
perpendicular descent nearly one hundred feet high, 
the verge of which was, perhaps, half that distance 
from the pass. The ridge at this point, and, indeed, 
throughout its entire length, was well wooded, so 
that persons passing over it, could scarcely be seen 
from below. 

The travelers permitted their horses to walk to 
the summit, but on entering the defile they increased 
the speed to an easy trot. It had been arranged that 
they should halt for the night some two miles beyond 
the ridge, and they were congratulating themselves 
upon the progress made since leaving Cologne, when 
just as the end of the defile was reached, three horse- 


130 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

men placed themselves directly across their path, and, 
at the same moment, one of them, in a low, but stern 
tone, commanded a halt. 

The travelers instinctively obeyed the summons, 
believing it to be the signal of danger ahead. 

<< What mean you by this demonstration, seig- 
nior? ” asked Wolfgang. 

You shall know after having delivered up your 
weapons to us,” was replied in very faulty German, 
which also betrayed the Spanish pronunciation. 

‘ ‘ There are three of us to two, indeed, I may say, 
one, of you,” continued the spokesman, as he glanced 
somewhat contemptuously at the rather slight" form of 
Rudolph. 

The latter, who was at Diefenbach’s side, imme- 
diately leaned over and whispered to him : 

“ It is the party I met at Weert. The tones of his 
voice are fresh in my memory.” 

The only visible effect of this announcement on 
Wolfgang was to cause him to elevate his brows 
slightly, as he promptly replied to the Spaniard : 

“What! would you divest us of all means of 
defense, seignior. Bethink you, night approaches, 
and the banks of the Rhine are not always free from 
predatory bands. ’ ’ 

The Spaniard was nettled at the sarcasm discover- 
able in this response, and retorted : 

“I pledge my faith that you will not be troubled 
by them.” 

“Verily,” said Wolfgang, with a look difficult to 
interpret, “such assurance is a thing we had not 


THE CONTACT 


131 

hoped for. The baron Schwarzberg has shown 
great foresight in instructing you to tender us so much 
courtesy.” 

*‘The baron Schwarzberg! ” was echoed, and the 
speaker started slightly in his saddle. 

‘*Ay, marry, senor Loandez,” came the stinging 
response. You should give your tutor and prospec- 
tive paymaster the credit he deserves for his counsels ; 
and, also, for conferring the honor of this mission 
upon one so capable of executing it as yourself.” 

‘ ‘ Beshrew your idle guessing, fellow ; we have no 
relish for it. Our business is not to prate of credits 
and honors. Yield to my demand, instantly, if you 
hold your miscreant life to be of any value,” and 
Loandez — for it was he — laid his hand upon the hilt 
of his sword, which action was the signal for his two 
companions to take the same course. 

“Softly, sir Spaniard,” said Wolfgang, in a more 
resolute tone than he had hitherto indulged. “ Mis- 
take not the extent of your own abilities by underes- 
timating ours. I am well apprised of your designs, and 
neither jest, nor jump at a conclusion when coupling 
you with Schwarzberg at one end of your enterprise, 
as I now couple you with Titelmann at the other. 
Think it not strange that I am able to do this. The 
facts reached me through two sources, of which you 
are one.” 

“Then, since you surmise our purpose, I have no 
need, indeed, no desire, to further mask it,” retorted 
Loandez, flushed with ire. “But it is a lie, worthy 


132 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 

of its source, that any knowledge )^ou may have con- 
cerning it ever came from me.” 

‘‘ Say you so ? ” came from Wolfgang, in a half- 
hissing way, his eyes flashing and his breast heaving 
as he raised himself to almost a standing position and 
leaned forward with his hand upon his sword. 
could dash that dastardly libel back between your 
teeth and follow it with this trusty brand, did I wish 
for more serious encounter. But if you betake 
yourself home with dispatch, I will spare you the 
punishment the insult just received has so fully 
earned.” 

Ha ! ha !” scornfully laughed the Spaniard. ** Is 
this, then, your favorite method for ending a parley ? 
Verily, there be some who would eagerly take advan- 
tage of your liberality. As for us, seignior Diefen- 
bach, we waive such privilege. You shall be sent to 
the most gracious Titelmann, that loyal servant of 
‘Holy Mother Church,’ to report your discomfiture 
here.” 

‘ ‘ Braggart ! If ever you report again to Titelmann 
touching aught of this earth, it will not be with a 
tongue of flesh, unless the limbs of your steed be 
lightning, or Diefenbach cease to live within the next 
hour. Draw ! ” 

“ Verily, you have the courage to measure brands, 
it seems,” was the Spaniard’s tantalizing reply. “ It 
suits me well. Comrades, one of you unhorse that 
stripling.” 

The next instant, five swords gleamed in the glow 
of the sun’s farewell rays. The two companions of 


THE CONTACT 


133 


Loandez, either through a misapprehension of his 
command, or because each was anxious to accomplish 
the task he indicated, dashed toward Rudolph, 
brandishing their steels as if they would intimidate 
him at the outset. But Wolfgang, notwithstanding 
the fact that Loandez was almost within swords’ 
length of him, would not permit such an unequal 
contest ; and, sinking his spurs deep into his horse’s 
flanks, with a bound or two, he cleared the distance 
separating him from the first of the twain. On 
reaching his side, he rose to his full height in the 
stirrups, and, apparently, urging all the strength he 
possessed into his right arm, he drove his weapon 
with such fury against that of the other as to force it 
from his grasp and send it whirling a score of feet 
beyond. Quick as thought, the latter drew a stiletto 
from his belt ; but before he could raise his arm to 
strike, Wolfgang’s sword came down upon his neck, 
and he fell bleeding and dying from his steed. These 
movements occupied but a very few seconds. Wolfgang 
instantly turned toward Loandez. He was none too 
soon. The Spaniard was within reach of him, with 
his brand high in the air. It came down like a flash, 
but his antagonist received and parried the blow with 
his own. Then followed a contest at arms which 
demanded all the skill and strength which each was 
capable of exercising. Loandez was an adept in the 
use of the sword, and it was his knowledge of the 
fact that prompted the bombastic utterances in which 
he had indulged. He was disappointed in finding 
himself fairly matched with Diefenbach, and very 


134 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

soon became convinced that if he vanquished his 
opponent, it must be through some unlooked-for 
blunder on the latter’s part. 

Pending this struggle of the principals for the 
mastery, a strife no less thrilling was waging between 
Rudolph and the other assailant. Though the young 
man was less muscular, he was more skillful than his 
opposer, and, despite the latter’s heavy sallies, grad- 
ually forced him backward. So absorbed had both 
become in their efforts, that they failed to observe 
the point toward which they were drifting. This 
was the verge of the cliff previously referred to. A 
slight growth of bushes which extended about a rod 
from one extremity toward the centre, partially 
hid it from view. They had reached to within sev- 
eral feet of this, when by a bungling parry of a down- 
ward stroke made by Rudolph, the latter’s sword 
came with great force against the forehead of his 
antagonist’s steed. The animal instinctively bounded 
backward. It was a fatal movement. His hind feet 
came down upon the extreme edge of the precipice, 
while his momentum — incapable of being overcome 
without further space — urged him beyond the verge. 
A moment’s desperate struggle ; a cry of horror from 
both combatants, and rider and horse plunged head- 
long, one hundred feet, to the rocks and bushes below, 
and were instantly killed. 

The exclamations attending the catastrophe, drew 
the attention of both Wolfgang and his opponent. 
The former, seeing at a glance, that Rudolph was 
safe, instantly returned his attention to Loandez, who 


THE CONTACT. 


135 


was, now, off his guard. With a single blow he 
could have sent him to the other world to rejoin his 
companions ; but, from the first, he had designed to 
capture him alive, if possible, and subject him to an 
ordeal before a tribunal from whose decision there 
could be no escape. His opportunity had come. A 
well-directed and powerful stroke of his heavy brand 
severed that of the Spaniard close to the hilt, and 
sent the blade ringing to the ground. Quick as a 
flash, the latter comprehended his situation, and 
essayed to extricate himself from it by flight. But 
Wolfgang anticipated the effort, and seizing his horse 
by the bridle, held him firmly until he could summon 
Rudolph. A few minutes later, the Spaniard’s hands 
were securely pinioned behind him, and in this 
plight, with one of his intended victims on either 
side, he was escorted to the town where the travelers 
had previously intended to halt for the night. 


CHAPTER XI. 


A BRACE OF TRUSTED ADVISERS. 

N the same day and at the same hour when the: 



event just narrated occurred, a scene of a 
different character was taking place at the castle of 
count Rosenfeldt. This structure was situated on an 
eminence near the Rhine, and commanded a good 
view of the river and surrounding country for 
miles on either hand. A massive octagonal tower, 
crowned by frowning embattlements, arose, at one 
corner of the huge edifice, some fifty feet above its 
other portions. Both its interior and exterior con- 
struction, was, evidently, intended to render it an 
impregnable fortress, as well as a commodious and 
even luxurious residence. The grounds in the imme- 
diate vicinity, had, under its present proprietor, 
assumed quite an artistic appearance, and, hence, 
were more inviting to the eye than the castle itself. 

In this place, count Rosenfeldt had become the 
father of several children, of whom Rudolph alone 
remained alive. These sad bereavements had left 
their depressing influence upon all the subsequent life 
of the countess. While she entertained their frequent 
guests with all the grace and affability required of one 
in her position, there was an undertone of sadness 
traceable in all her movements and utterances which 


(136) 


A BRACE OF TRUSTED ADVISERS. 137 


invariably drew attention, and rendered her an object 
of sincere commiseration. Her affections, as a 
mother, being now centered in her sole surviving 
child, every interest attaching to his life, she regarded 
as a matter of deep concern. The consent which she 
had reluctantly given to his absence in Spain, had 
been followed by almost continual anxiety, on her 
part, notwithstanding the frequent letters she received 
from him, which were designed to allay her fears and 
mollify the sorrows engendered by the past. This 
consent had been secured by the joint appeals of 
Rudolph and the prince of Orange. The latter, 
while desiring the young man’s services, had not 
been altogether selfish in the representations he made. 
He sincerely believed the residence of Rudolph at the 
Spanish capital and in the circle of court influences, 
would be greatly to his young friend’s advantage by 
securing him opportunities for gaining instructions 
that he could find nowhere else. Neither of the 
three most deeply interested had entertained the 
slightest misgiving that the weakening, much less the 
overthrow, of his religious faith would result from the 
visit. 

As soon as Rudolph had decided to return home, 
he forwarded a message, announcing the fact to his 
mother, though, as hitherto, remaining entirely reti- 
cent concerning his change of faith. From that 
moment, life, to the countess, grew more enjoyable 
than it had been for years. Her mind immediately 
became busily occupied in preparations for his ad- 
vent. She thought of a hundred contrivances calcu- 


138 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


lated to intensify the welcome in store for him and 
the enjoyments which were to follow. In addition, 
she determined, by a rigid disciplinary process, to 
force from her heart the sombre cloud which had so 
long shaded it; or, if that were impossible, to so 
control its effects, that they would not obtrude them- 
selves in his presence to mar the happiness she desired 
him to realize. 

Not least among the pleasant meditations which 
occupied the mind of the countess, were those per- 
taining to the union of her son with the lovely Chris- 
tina. She was convinced that this union would be 
one wherein love was the sovereign principle, not one 
brought about by mercenary scheming and mere 
formal acquiescence. She was as fond of the pro- 
spective bride as Rudolph could desire her to be, and 
cherished only the design of rendering the young 
couple as happy in their conjugal life as she had 
endeavored to make them in their single estate. 

As for count Rosenfeldt himself, let it not be infer- 
red from the foregoing that he took but slight interest 
in domestic affairs. On the contrary, he was alive 
to their importance and attentive to the duties and 
privileges with which they invested him. He had 
mourned with his wife in their bereavements; had 
been solicitous for Rudolph when going abroad ; had 
eagerly received any intelligence respecting him ; had 
hailed with satisfaction the news of his intended re- 
turn, and assisted the countess in preparing for it ; 
and in many other ways had revealed his sympathies. 
Yet all these expressions of interest were in a modi- 


A BJ^ACE OF TRUSTED ADVISERS. 139 

fied form when compared with those of his wife. But 
this was not unnatural. Politics ; the questions 
which grew out of the Reformation; and the man- 
agement of his estates engrossed a good share of 
his attention, and were reasonable apologies for any 
apparent lack of attention, on his part, to strictly 
household concerns. 

The Reformation, which had secured an immense 
number of adherents and was constantly gaining ac- 
cessions throughout Germany, had failed to awaken 
the sympathies of either the count or countess in its 
favor. The latter, however, while not yielding to its 
influence, in the sense of becoming one of its sup- 
porters, was, nevertheless, satisfied that it should 
operate as a rectifier among the masses, and especi- 
ally — as she hoped it would do — among the authori- 
ties of the Church. She had long been convinced 
that many serious errors — she was loth to characterize 
them more severely — had crept into every ecclesiastic 
order attached to Rome, from. the Papacy, down. 
And, while she had not contemplated seeking a sub- 
stitute for her Catholic creed, she had grown some- 
what skeptical regarding its sufficiency of power for 
meeting spiritual requirements in seasons of extreme 
and overwhelming trial. Her attention had been 
directed to this view by its failure to sustain in the 
deep afflictions through which she had been called. 

The count, on the other hand, entertained not the 
slightest misgiving concerning the righteousness of 
the creed or the polity of Mother Church.” So 
far as the Reformers were concerned, he despised 


140 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


them heartily. This is not meant to imply that he 
refused to associate with them on any grounds what- 
ever. But as regarded their religious tenets, he held 
them aloof, and thought no punishment that the 
Church, as such, could inflict, too severe. 

But a terrible ordeal, which was to test, unsparingly, 
their loyalty of faith, and the love that held them to 
their child, had now, spectre-like, spread its sombre 
wings over their hearts and changed their prospective 
pleasure at his coming into torture and conflict. It 
was the result of Rudolph’s changed views, a knowl- 
edge of which had reached them the evening pre- 
vious to the capture of Loandez. The news had been 
forwarded to them through a trusty messenger, by 
baron Schwarzberg. He was conscious of having 
assumed a serious responsibility in annulling the mar- 
riage contract, and being anxious that Rudolph’s par- 
ents should have a full knowledge of the facts con- 
nected with the affair and thus be led to approve his 
course, he lost no time, after father Volkmer’s depart- 
ure from his house, in noting down the details and 
dispatching them post haste. The messenger, as was 
intended, had greatly anticipated the arrival of Ru- 
dolph himself. The intelligence fell upon the count 
and his wife like an avalanche. It seemed to crush 
out at one stroke every hope they entertained for the 
future of their boy. The measure of the trial was 
not alone comprehended in the fact that he had for- 
saken the creed of Rome. The results — as yet, an 
unknown quantity — loomed up in the perspective. 
One was already manifest — the broken agreement. 


A BRACE OF TRUSTED ADVISERS. 141 


As regarded the baron’s action relative to the com- 
pact, count Rosenfeldt was not long in deciding. It 
met his approval. Of course, it wrung his very heart 
to endorse a measure so disastrous as this appeared to 
be. But a failure to do so would, in his judgment, 
be a reflection upon the Church — subordinating it to 
his own selfish desires. The countess, however, 
could not so readily consent to the demolition of all 
her hopes in this connection. While she mourned 
and prayed, the struggle between duty to her Church 
and duty to her offspring, which began with the 
reception of the news, became more and more excit- 
ing. She could not see her way clear to acquiesce in 
her husband’s decision. Baron Schwarzberg had not 
given the matter due consideration. He had de- 
manded a too prompt recantation on Rudolph’s part. 
In fact, his methods had been cruel, despotic ; re- 
pelling, rather than attracting, the offender; thus, 
virtually amounting to an additional argument against 
yielding to the requirement made. So reasoned the 
countess. She considered the situation repeatedly 
during the live-long night, and when the morning 
dawned, was, to say the least, as little inclined to 
reconcile herself to the situation as she was the even- 
ing before. Indeed she had determined to reserve 
final judgment until Rudolph appeared and spoke for 
himself. 

Meanwhile, the count had been endeavoring to 
decide upon what his own course should be toward 
his son. Failing to reach a conclusion, he deter- 
mined, early in the day, to take counsel of two breth- 


142 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

ren of the Order of Jesus — or Jesuits, as they were 
more familiarly known — whom he ranked among his 
most sincere friends, and who resided in a contig^- 
uous city. A messenger was dispatched to summon 
them to his castle. To this demand they yielded, 
though their arrival was delayed until late in the after- 
noon. 

Anyone, with even a moderate degree of informa- 
tion touching this order, knows that one of its leading 
charaoteristics is deception. Its rule for operating 
has always seemed to be based on the principle that, 
‘‘ The end justifies the means.” Though allied with, 
and always zealous for the advancement of the Rom- 
ish Church, it has frequently received merited and 
severe rebuke from the authorities thereof for its 
temerity and the nefarious methods often employed in 
the prosecution of its schemes. With these facts in 
view, it is hardly supposable that anyone not thor- 
oughly bigoted, would have sought the counsels of 
men so illy qualified, morally, to decide a matter of 
so delicate a nature as the one in question. But 
count Rosenfeldt was a bigot ; one to whom the 
oracles of Mother Church were all things. He gave 
her a blind adherence, never deeming it possible that 
her polity could ever be at variance with the great 
truths recorded by the Evangelists and substantiated 
by the Apostles. 

Though the count had kept these persons ignorant 
of his object in sending for them, a very few min- 
utes after they were announced, Rosenfeldt himself 
conducted them to a large apartment that opened into 


A BRACE OF TRUSTED ADVISERS. 143 


the tower, and which had been fitted up for his own 
private use, and embellished in the style of the times. 
The countess being unaware that the men had been 
sent for, and of the purpose had in view, was not 
invited to be present. 

Having properly received his guests, Rosenfeldt 
narrated all he himself knew relating to his son’s 
heresy, baron Schwarzberg’s action, and the feelings 
of the countess touching the whole affair. He also 
frankly admitted that he was in a quandary concern- 
ing the course necessary for him to pursue as a par- 
ent and a loyal Catholic. His recital throughout was 
listened to with the strictest attention, and was fol- 
lowed by a silence of several minutes’ duration, which 
was broken by one of the Jesuits, an Italian, named 
Castriani, who observed : 

“It is a case similar to many others, noble count, 
that have enlisted our counsel.” ' 

“Verily, yes. But then, brother Castriani, I 
mind me that we have never met with one so deplor- 
able as this, considering all the interests it affects,” 
replied the other representative of the order, a Ger- 
man, whose name was Uhlricht. 

“ Thou sayest well, good Uhlricht. It is most 
aggravated and afflicting. And since it pertains to 
the ever zealous and loyal house of Rosenfeldt, whose 
praises are upon the lips of all the faithful, it be- 
hooves us to move with slow deliberation if haply 
some method may be devised looking toward the res- 
toration of the noble youth to his early vows.” 

“ Wouldst thou yield to the mandate of the Church 


144 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


in the direst extremity, worthy count? ” asked Uhl- 
richt. 

“Truly,” was replied, “ such question but poorly 
harmonizes with the fealty I have ever shown thereto. 
But bethink you, my trusted advisers, I am the father 
of the culprit, and he, my only surviving child. To 
him, therefore, have I looked to conduct my name 
unblemished down to posterity. It would indeed be 
a weighty blow to feel that with him must end all the 
hopes that cluster around the future of our house. 
Nevertheless, my code of faith may admit of no lax- 
ity of resolve, let the emergency be never so disrel- 
ishable, though you may well think that I crave the 
easiest way out of this most distressing and perplex- 
ing strait.” 

‘ ‘ Thou speakest as is thy wont, worthy count, ’ ’ said 
Uhlricht. “And I trust, most devoutly, that no 
severe expedient will be essential in order to restore 
the faith of thy son. Yet, peradventure, he may not 
yield to our kindly offices, and then the Church may 
not be remiss in demanding the penalty affixed to 
this most flagrant of crimes. ’ ’ 

“You mean the death of the offender? ” responded 
Rosenfeldt, inquiringly. . 

. ^ ‘ Marry, that would rest with a more authoritative 

council than this which we constitute, though the 
chances favor such a result. As for thyself, true 
loyalty would constrain thee to utterly cast him off 
forever, unless in the event of his return in the deep- 
est contrition to the faith he has so wilfully outraged, 
when, after undergoing the penance meet for his sins, 


A BRACE OF TRUSTED ADVISERS. 1 45 

he could be restored both to thy favor and that of the 
Church.” 

“ Can we devise no method whereby these extremi- 
ties may be averted ? ” asked the count, with evident 
emotion. 

“Faith, I have but now loosely conceived of a 
means, but it is, as yet, so crude in my mind, that 
I scarcely dare recommend its adoption,” replied 
Castriani. 

“ Let us have thy thought, brother,” said Uhlricht, 
* ‘ and it may be we can aid thee in giving it practical 
shape.” 

“ I doubt not you can do so. My idea was of this 
cast. We will meet him, on his arrival, with the 
most cordial welcome; draw from him, in a gentle 
way, the statement of his heresy; then seek by the 
mildest course possible to argue him away from his 
error, and, finally, portray the blessed results that will 
attend a complete recantation. This mode, I have 
reason to hope, will be effectual. In my opinion, 
there is reason to believe — as it seems the countess 
does — that the noble baron Schwarzberg’s procedure, 
though highly commendatory, so far as it expressed 
his zeal for the Church, was too harsh as a first effort 
to win him back. Should the course I have suggested, 
prove ineffectual, his transfer to the vaults of the old 
church of St. Marie, might not be amiss. We could 
there subject him to greater severity of treatment, and 
menace and torture would probably accomplish what 
lenient effort failed to produce. As a last resort, a 
term in a dungeon, with limited means for sustaining 
10 


146 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


life, would doubtless be followed by salutary results. 
This is my conception, roughly outlined, and, how- 
ever you may regard it, one thing is certain, it needs 
further consideration before being adopted.” 

“It sounds fairly well, on first presentation,” said 
Uhlricht. “ How do you view it, noble count ? ” 

“The proposition has some good points, and 
might, after mature deliberation, commend itself in 
all respects,” replied the count. “We must reach a 
conclusion by some passage; and it behooves us well 
to seek for the briefest and most merciful process that 
gives promise of the hoped-for result.” 

“True, worthy Rosenfeldt. And it may be that 
the method indicated will be the best and easiest we 
could adopt. Let us, at least, weigh it carefully. 
But, in order to move intelligently, we, that is, 
brother Castriani and myself, must needs have a fuller 
understanding of young Rudolph’s characteristics; 
otherwise, we may decide upon certain styles of ad- 
dress which may drive him from, instead of winning 
him to us.” 

“That is a matter of much consequence, truly, 
noble count,” said Castriani. 

Rosenfeldt, sharing in this opinion, then proceeded 
to enlighten them concerning Rudolph’s habits, pref- 
erences, modes of reasoning, and, indeed, gave them 
an elaborate portrayal of his mental and moral com- 
position. 


CHAPTER XIL 


THE MONK AND THE COUNTESS. 

BOUT noon on the day following their terrific 



encounter with the Spaniards, Wolfgang Die- 
fenbach and Rudolph entered Coblentz with Loandez, 
their prisoner. Diefenbach had a small circle of 
friends in that city, among whom were several in 
positions of authority. To these latter, he made 
known the facts of the conflict on the preceding 
evening, and arranged with them for the safe custody 
of the surviving culprit until he could dispose of him 
according to his preconceived design. This done, 
the travelers secured accommodations at an inn. 
Their intention, however, was not to remain longer 
than the next morning, and Wolfgang intimated that 
he might deem it necessary for him to leave within a 
few hours. Such being his feeling, he was anxious 
to arrange for a meeting with the young man subse- 
quent to the latter’s contact with his father. In the 
event of an unfortunate result, he had already deter- 
mined to befriend him to the extent of his ability. 

Rudolph,” he inquired, ‘‘how feel you in view 
of the near approach of the ordeal that awaits you? ” 
“Alack, I am pending between hope and fear,” 
was answered. “ It is an issue I fain would avert.” 
“Nevertheless, good friend, it must be met ; and 


(147) 


148 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


be assured that I crave the best possible results in your 
behalf.” 

I thank you most heartily, seignior Diefenbach, for 
the sympathy you have all along manifested for me ; 
and it is my prayer that I may live long enough to 
make you fair returns.” 

Tush — tush; I shall be amply compensated if 
this affair turn as I hope it may. But whatever be 
the issue, I much desire to see you at the end of a 
week in the place where we now are. Will you so 
engage ? ” 

Yes. Unless I be so circumstanced as to render 
the meeting impossible.” 

Verily, I think we need have but little fear on 
that score, ’ ’ said Wolfgang. ^ < Even if you be rejected, 
your freedom will, doubtless, be assured.” 

I have no misgivings to the contrary, albeit the 
times are treacherous, and one may not feel absolutely 
certain of his friends, be they even of his own near- 
est kin.” 

You are quite right, I acknowledge. Yet we 
look for better dealings on the part of such devoted 
parents as you seem to possess, and you will, there- 
fore, remember that one week from this day I shall be 
at this inn to perform my part of our engagement.” 

shall make effort not to disappoint you,” re- 
plied Rudolph. 

** I doubt it not,” was returned. And, now, if 
you please, I must absent myself for about the space 
of an hour, on matters of private import. If you 
have no special call elsewhere, do not leave the room, 


THE MONK AND THE COUNTESS. 149 

as something may transpire in connection with the 
business I have in hand, which will compel me to 
return sooner than I anticipate, and possibly, demand 
my immediate departure from the city.” 

Come when you will, you will find me here, as I 
have much to meditate upon, and prefer seclusion.” 

Diefenbach left the inn. But before the next hour 
expired, was back again. He entered the room 
hastily, and, on closing the door, said : 

‘‘ As I surmised, it is important that I leave Cob- 
lentz this afternoon. Were circumstances other than 
they are, it would have pleased me well to accompany 
you a portion of the distance you must traverse in the 
morning, though my absence will not be of injury to 
your cause.” 

As I have done thus far, I would have continued 
to relish your companionship, could it be bestowed 
without sacrifice. When do we part ? ” 

* * At once. Any delay would be hazardous. And 
there is too much at stake to assume a risk of what- 
ever kind.” 

‘‘ Do not let me detain you a minute, then,” said 
Rudolph. Can I be of the least assistance ? ” 

** Thanks ; no. There is nothing to prepare.” 

Wolfgang remained long enough to give the young 
man a few words of final counsel, and then departed. 

During the rest of the afternoon, Rudolph, hav- 
ing nothing to attend to without, remained in his 
room. His thoughts naturally dwelt upon the pro- 
posed meeting with his parents on the next day. He 
pictured to himself a variety of receptions, any one 


150 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


of which he might receive. Over and over again he 
prayed for a kindly greeting ; a generous hearing. 

Early in the evening of the day in question, a 
monk, with bent form and sluggish step, labored up 
the bridle-path leading to the castle of count Rosen- 
feldt. On reaching the ponderous gate in the massive 
wall that inclosed the grounds immediately adjoining 
the castle, he signaled for admission, when the porter 
appeared, and, after a few interrogatories which were 
satisfactorily answered, permitted him to enter. He 
was ushered into a small, though, for the times, 
elaborately ornamented hall, the floor of which was 
inlaid with mosaics that had been transferred from 
the ruins of an ancient Roman villa. Here he was 
obliged to await the appearance of the count, who 
was then closeted with his two Jesuitical counselors in 
a remote portion of the castle. Nearly a half hour 
elapsed before Rosenfeldt entered the apartment. As 
he moved toward the seat occupied by the monk, he 
said, as the latter arose : 

A fair evening to you, holy father, for such your 
habit indicates you to be.’' 

** Thou hast rightly interpreted it, most noble 
count,” responded the monk. <‘And I am truly 
here as a representative of our holy order of St. Bene- 
dict, in the interest, as thou mayest infer, of the faith 
which we ever seek to maintain.” 

You are most welcome ; and I will be so free as 
to inquire whence you came.” 

** I am direct from Antwerp as fast as an indifferent 
steed could hasten me. It is the welfare of thy son 


THE MONK AND THE COUNTESS, 15 1 


touching his relations with the baron Schwarzberg, 
whose confessor I am, that has impelled me hither.” 

**Ah! Say you so?” eagerly asked the count, 
retreating a step or two. 

‘‘It is even so, good seignior,” said the monk, as 
he essayed to straighten his deformed body. ‘ ‘ Hast 
thou learned aught concerning recent adventures on 
the part of the youth ? ” 

The count scanned his visitor quietly for a brief 
space, and then inquired : 

“ By what name may I address you, good father? ” 

“ I am known in our fraternity and to those who 
receive my holy offices as father Volkmer.” 

“ So ! ” came the light exclamation of the count, 
in a satisfied tone, as though a doubt regarding the 
monk’s veracity had lingered in his mind. “ I have 
heard the noble Schwarzberg speak of you, at times, 
but, as I remember, we never met ere this.” 

“ Nay, if we have done so, I do not recall the cir- 
cumstance,” said Volkmer. “ But, worthy seignior, 
thou hast overlooked my inquiry pertaining to thy son 
Rudolph.” 

“ True, good father, though I have no reason to 
delay an answer. And it grieves me much to state 
that we have received most sad intelligence concern- 
ing him.” 

“Then his recreancy to his churchly vows ; his 
obdurate adherence to the errors he has imbibed ; 
and the consequent subversion of the hopes of both 
thy house and of the noble baron’s concerning the 


152 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


youth’s alliance with the fair Christina, are well 
known to thee.” 

Alas, yes. Can you afford the slightest grain of 
encouragement in connection with those conditions ? ” 
said the count, sadly. 

Verily, I can not answer thee positively, though 
I entertain the hope that his heart may yet be reached 
and yield a favorable response to appeals made for his 
return to the faith. It is to put forth such effort that 
I have come.” 

Have you already spoken with him ? ” 

‘‘Nay. He had been at the noble baron’s ere I 
myself was there, and I did not meet him before he 
left Antwerp to come hither, the day previous to my 
own departure.” 

“ Then must he have loitered greatly on the way, 
as he has not yet appeared,” said the count, in atone 
indicating some surprise. 

‘ ‘ Sayest thou so ? He should have preceded me 
by many hours, except that my surmise be true, or he 
rode a miserable jade. Hast thou yet decided upon 
the manner of his reception, worthy count ? ” 

“Yes. We have arranged fully concerning the 
methods to be employed for the subversion of his 
heretical notions. And, since you are so deeply in- 
terested in his case, and our desires touching it har- 
monize so perfectly, I will confide to you the course 
that has been evolved.” 

The count then gave Volkmer the salient points of 
the plan agreed upon, which was, substantially, that 
proposed by Castriani the evening previous. 


THE MONK AND THE COUNTESS. 1 53 


have some knowledge of Uhlricht, and it 
pleases me well to learn that thou hast sought counsel 
of one so godly and judicious. As for the means to 
secure the end, I opine that no better could be 
mooted.” 

* * Then we may depend upon your full coopera- 
tion,” said the count, with a look of satisfaction. 

* ‘ In all things that seek the best interests of the 
erring youth,” replied Volkmer. 

‘‘You afford me great encouragement. Come, let 
me escort you to the two brethren who await my re- 
turn. We will presently sup together.” 

The count left the apartment, followed by Volk- 
mer, and they soon joined the Jesuits at the opposite 
extreme of the castle. The latter were well satisfied 
to have the additional aid which had so unexpectedly 
appeared, and were encouraged, like the count, to 
think that it boded speedier success. 

While these consultations with his advisers were 
absorbing the count’s time and attention, the count- 
ess was undergoing an experience that amounted to 
little less than torture. Rosenfeldt had given her no 
intimation of his intention to seek the counsel of the 
Jesuits, and her first knowledge of the fact was not 
received until the next morning after their appear- 
ance. Her estimate of the order, was not a flattering 
one. The question that absorbed her thought was not 
in relation to the defeat or success of their endeavors 
to win Rudolph back to his vows ; but the methods 
to which they might resort in efforts to reach such a 
result. 


154 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Most of the time since the advent of the Jesuits, 
had been spent • by the countess in her own private 
apartments; consequently, she had scarcely more 
than seen either of them up to the hour when Volk- 
mer arrived. Thus secluded, she had yielded her 
mind to every cast and shade of foreboding. 

It is not singular that, being the prey of these 
thoughts and the emotions they engendered, the count- 
ess had become well-nigh distracted, or that her nat- 
ural aversion for the men under consideration was 
intensified to absolute hatred. Her maids, indeed, 
sought to administer to her distress, but their efforts 
effected little, if anything, in the way of relief. The 
pacifying endeavors of the count himself, in the two 
or three brief interviews he sought and secured with 
her, were none the less futile than were those of the 
domestics. Being aware that the Jesuits were not in high 
repute with his wife, he was careful, after having 
clandestinely invited them to the castle, not to thrust 
them upon her attention. The two brethren were, 
however, kept ignorant of her feeling toward them, 
though they were shrewd enough not to put themselves 
in her way, much less to divulge their plans or seek 
to win her consent thereto by a process of reasoning. 

After Volkmer appeared on the scene, and explained 
his reason therefor, the count conceived the idea that 
he might be utilized in efforts to bring the countess 
to a better condition of feeling. Of course, she was 
not to be made aware of the scheme decided upon. 
But Rosenfeldt hoped that the monk might so influ- 
ence her as to intensify her desire for the young man’s 


THE MONK AND THE COUNTESS. 1 55 

recantation. He believed that such effort on her part 
would be a potent factor in the case. Accordingly, 
he took occasion during the evening to solicit Volkmer’s 
good offices in this direction. The latter, after some 
hesitancy, during which he repeatedly expressed his 
doubts of success, consented to act as desired at an 
early hour on the following day. 

The countess was astir with the dawn. Though 
her condition was still one of suffering, she had 
rallied perceptibly through the soothing influence of 
the few hours’ slumber which her overwrought nature 
had wrested from the passing night. The count 
embraced a suitable opportunity to inform her of the 
monk’s desire for an interview. She. yielded, after 
deliberation, to the request, though not without some 
misgivings as to the honesty of the intentions of the 
man she was to meet. 

At the end of half an hour, Volkmer was ushered 
into the presence of the countess, and the two were 
left alone to converse at will. The monk introduced 
the subject by satisfactorily stating who he was ; his 
relations to the baron Schwarzberg; and the reason — 
as he had made it known to the count — for his visit 
to the castle. A close consideration of the incidents, 
so far as Volkmer was apprised of them, connected 
with Schwarzberg’s treatment of Rudolph at Antwerp, 
then followed. This version of the matter had the 
effect to strengthen the adverse opinion of the count- 
ess touching the baron’s methods. Whether Volkmer 
intended it, or not, he drew a much more disagree- 
able picture of the facts than that afforded by the 


156 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

message which the count had received from the baron 
direct. But much as the lady deprecated the past, 
she was far more deeply interested in the future de- 
velopment of the ordeal. 

^‘Unsavory as has been the treatment my perse- 
cuted child has received,” she observed, “ I fear he 
is reserved for a more sorrowful doom.” 

‘‘ Nay, good lady, methinks thy motherly regard 
giveth too sombre a coloring to the experience that 
awaits him,” replied Volkmer. 

Do you, indeed, entertain a more hopeful view ? ” 
asked the countess, with a shade of doubt respecting 
his honesty, in her tone. 

Yea, madame, I speak truly, as thou mayest here- 
after have occasion to learn.” 

Alas, I fear me, you do not place true estimate 
upon the wicked qualifications of the persons to whom 
the count is disposed to refer Rudolph’s case,” was 
replied, sadly. 

How ! Dost thou then question the virtue and 
loyalty of those representatives of a most holy order? ” 

Their antecedents, good father, have not, as a 
rule, exhibited the merciful spirit of him whose name 
they have appropriated as their distinguishing title. 
And you will forgive me for frankly saying that 1 had 
hoped, when consenting to this audience, that I 
should meet with one who, with many other wise 
confessors, cannot regard their methods as being the 
most exemplary and winsome.” 

Ah, lady, thou hast drawn a too hasty conclu- 
sion concerning my opinion of the persons thou con- 


THE MONK AND THE COUNTESS. 157 

demnest. The question I propounded was but to draw 
from thee thy real estimate of the fraternity to which 
they are attached. It behooves me not to jeopardize 
my standing and the opportunities that sometimes 
come in my way for defeating treacherous connivances, 
by too great a show of the humane and truthful. ’ ’ 

^‘Are you, then, verily, in sympathy with my 
child — my noble, though erring, Rudolph ? ” inquired 
the countess, eagerly. 

As truly as that thou lookest into my face, good 
lady. It was to shield him in every way possible, 
that I flew hither from Antwerp. And I will advise 
thee at this present, that whatever hereafter thou 
learnest touching methods of mine at seeming vari- 
ance with this announcement, thou refrain from any 
opposition thereto. Duplicity may needs become my 
strongest weapon for favoring thy boy, as it usually 
is with those whom thou arraignest, in their efforts to 
secure a coveted result.” 

“Verily, holy father, with this assurance, you 
become a break- water against the terrific tide of grief 
whose ever increasing force has threatened the extinc- 
tion both of my reason and my life,” said the count- 
ess, with a brighter face and more buoyant expres- 
sion. 

“ Dost thou grant me thy confidence unreservedly, 
lady?” inquired the monk, scanning her features, 
sharply. 

“ I do,” came promptly. “ But,” was added, with 
some severity of manner, “ as you count upon God’s 


158 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


mercy at his final tribunal, trifle not with the trust I 
repose in you.” 

I fail thee, either in intent or practice, may I 
be flayed alive and my remains never be honored 
with burial.” 

It is enough. And now I will pray you not to 
leave Rudolph until he is safely through the trial that 
awaits him here. Whatever you may be obliged to 
feign, let no arrangements for his disposal cause his 
interests, and, if possible, his person, to escape your 
vigilance. While I am aware that the count is deeply 
solicitous for his welfare, I, also, am satisfied that he 
would consent to the most rigorous discipline, did it 
afford the slightest hope of winning Rudolph back to 
the Church. Indeed, I fear me, that his death, if 
demanded as a penalty for his heresy, would gain the 
reluctant acquiescence of his father, who, with 
blind confidence, seems to accept whatever the 
Jesuits suggest.” 

Fear not, my good lady. I have studied both him 
and them, and am fully apprised of the course they 
intend to pursue. And, since I am supposed by 
each to be acting with a single eye to the good of the 
Church, and am, also, linked to the baron Schwarz- 
berg's household as father confessor, they will, I 
opine, defer much to my judgment in the conduct 
of the case, albeit my own plan, already conceived, 
tallies with their own until the line which separates 
between argumentative appeal and torture is reached, 
beyond which Rudolph cannot pass while I have the 
power to act in his defense.” 


THE MONK AND THE COUNTESS. 159 

** I thank you most heartily for this assurance, holy 
father,” said the countess, evincing deep feeling. <‘It 
is a benediction for which I dared not hope an hour 
ago ; and you may well conclude that I shall keep in 
remembrance your kind offices so long as the blessing 
of memory remains to me. But you must know that 
I do not object to all proper methods of persuasion in 
order to correct the error into which Rudolph has 
fallen. For, while opposed to many things in the 
Church which I deem fallacious, I am far from being 
a Protestant, and anxious that my boy shall return to 
the faith he has so wilfully forsaken.” 

“Nevertheless, as does the fair Christina, thou 
rankest his life, and even his freedom, above thy 
creed, ’ ’ said Volkmer, with a peculiar smile. ‘ ^ Marry, 
ye are both uncertain props to the massive structure 
of the Romish faith. Nay, interrupt me not, for I 
mistrust thy thought. Behold you how fairly obnox- 
ious is this system of bondage, death, and the inter- 
ference of sanctimonious devils when it thrusts its 
barbed and envenomed shafts through our own quiv- 
ering hearts. Surely, the owl is our winsome siren 
and the loathsome reptile our bosom friend when con- 
trasted with the virus of Rome’s anathemas. Verily, 
she is as far removed, in her practice, from the gentle 
spirit of the merciful Jesus as Perdition is from Para- 
dise. Yet there be those within her pale who tell 
their beads with simple, honest aims, and shudder at 
the blood and torture which they innocently deem 
essential to the defense of the faith. Now, what 


l6o RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


thinkest thou, noble lady ? Wilt say I am no Cath- 
olic? ” 

‘‘Truly, I know not what to think. Your utter- 
ances have set me adrift upon a strange sea to search 
for a decision,” replied the countess, looking her be- 
wilderment. 

“Faith, if I mistake not, I found thee upon a 
strange sea, midway between the opposite shores of 
Popery and Protestantism, struggling against the tide 
in one direction and against the wind in the other ; 
and methinks it would need but the execution by the 
Church of the gentle Rudolph to set thee strongly in 
the wake of Martin Luther himself. But be not 
angry at me for these strictures, neither rate me as one 
of the Reformers because, as thou hast done, I have 
discovered corrupting ulcers upon the papistical angel. 
I am, at least, as far from the Reformation as I am 
from Rome. That which thou cravest for the latter, 
do I also crave — the suppression of the vicious, and 
the exaltation of the virtuous element of her strength.” 

“Now do I seem to understand you,” said the 
countess, with a brightening look, “and shall, I trust, 
have further discourse with you concerning these 
matters.” 

“ So mote it be, good madame,” replied the monk, 
rising. “ Meanwhile, let not thy demeanor touching 
Rudolph’s fate, betray either too much anxiety, or 
an over degree of confidence. Thou shalt be advised 
of all that may transpire.” 

Saying this, Volkmer, with due formality, withdrew 
from the room. 


CHAPTER XIIL 


A TEST OF FAITH. 


BOUT two hours subsequent to the interview of 



Volkraer with the countess Rosenfeldt, Ru- 
dolph was discovered leisurely moving along the pas- 
sage-way up the height to his father’s castle. The 
appearance of his steed indicated that he had not suf- 
fered the time to pass unimproved. As he now ap- 
proached his home, in a most unenviable condition of 
mind, he almost wished that there was still a distance 
of miles between it and him, feeling that a longer 
delay in meeting with his parents would assist his 
preparation for the ordeal. He had not supposed 
that the uncertainty which he had all along expe- 
rienced, would so afflict him as the culminating point 
was reached. Of course, not the slightest intimation 
had, reached him that his father was apprised of the 
fact of his change of faith, or of baron Schwarzberg’s 
actions in connection therewith. Had he known the 
truth, he would have been better prepared, mentally, 
for the reception so soon to follow. 

Rudolph approached the heavy gate, and signaled 
his desire to be admitted. The porter was a stranger 
to whom he thought it unnecessary to make himself 
known. After inquiring if the count were at home, 
and being answered affirmatively, he requested that 

II (i6i) 


i 62 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


his horse be properly disposed of, and entered the 
castle, as aforetime. Being met by a page, who at 
once recognized and welcomed him, he dispatched 
the boy to inform his mother of his arrival. 

From the first, Rudolph had decided that a pre- 
liminary interview with the countess, would better 
prepare him for contact with his father, however much 
she might deplore and condemn his recent course. 

The page returned almost immediately to escort 
him to the apartment in which his mother wished to 
meet him. Rudolph hesitated a few moments in 
order to still his throbbing heart, and then signified 
his readiness to go forward. He was ushered into 
the most beautiful room the castle contained. All its 
appointments and embellishments were among the 
best which the age could produce. But these were 
not new to Rudolph’s eyes, though he had never 
wearied in studying their exquisite designs and in 
partaking of the cheerful influence their presence 
bestowed. Now, however, his mother was the only 
attraction. As he entered, she arose from her seat, 
moved toward him with extended arms, and, the 
next moment, wrapped him in her embrace, while 
kissing him repeatedly under the influence of an 
emotion which blended solicitude with delight. The 
low exclamations, ‘^Mother!” and, “ My boy ! ” 
were the first, and for a brief space, the only words 
that were exchanged. 

It is easy, with the information already given con- 
cerning each of them, to anticipate what immediately 
followed. Rudolph soon became aware that intelli- 


A TEST OF FAITH. 


163 

gence of his changed course had preceded him. 
Touching this, there were regrets, appeals, and tears 
from the countess; and explanations and assurances 
from the son. He was glad to learn that his father 
was not disposed to cast him off without a hearing ; 
though not encouraged to think that he would escape 
earnest, protracted, and, perhaps, severe efforts to 
effect a thorough recantation of his heretical notions. 
The countess longed to make him aware that father 
Volkmer was pledged to shield him from extreme 
measures. But she refrained from doing so, hoping 
that the fear of these, on his part, might weaken his 
desire to cling to the new faith. 

The interview was an extended one, and might 
have been much further prolonged had not the count, 
who, with his advisers, had witnessed Rudolph’s 
advent, requested and obtained permission to enter 
the room — for no one felt free to appear there without 
the consent of the countess herself. His bearing 
toward Rudolph was affable, revealing an interest in 
him more pronounced, it is true, than what he would 
show to a mere friend, yet so modified by an under- 
tone of sadness, as to deepen somewhat the shadow 
already resting upon the hearts of mother and son. 
There was, however, no allusion, at the time, to the 
cause of this emotion. The conversation, carried 
forward with some restraint of formality, was, for the 
most part, an outlining of the social side of Rudolph’s 
life in Spain — he, necessarily, consuming the greater 
portion of the time. 

When the count felt that he had accorded him all 


i64 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


the respite proper, under the circumstances, he re- 
quested his attendance in another part of the castle. 
Of course, both the young man and the countess 
knew what the change implied. And as he excused 
himself, he gave her an appealing look which seemed 
to say, ‘^shield me, if you can; ” to which she only 
responded with a half audible sigh, and eyes brim- 
ming with the heart’s overflow of feeling. The count 
construed these tacit expressions quite correctly, but 
refrained from commenting thereon. 

After threading a lengthy hallway and passing 
through several apartments, a large square room whose 
entrance was gained by scaling a steep flight of stone 
steps, was reached. Rosenfeldt gave two raps upon 
the massive door, which was composed of oak, heav- 
ily ironed. They were immediately admitted, when 
Rudolph found himself in the presence of three other 
persons whom, to his recollection, he had never seen 
before. They were Volkmer and the Jesuits. And, 
now, following the formalities of the introduction, 
came the direct accusation of heresy against the of- 
fender. Though couched in mild tones, it was firmly 
stated and afterwards attested by the message Schwarz- 
berg had forwarded to the count. It required some 
nerve and strength of conviction to meet an accusa- 
tion of this kind, having, as he did, a knowledge of 
the results that had obtained in many other similar 
cases. But Rudolph was equal to his necessities. 
When asked to answer to the charge, he confessed in 
very respectful, yet no less positive terms that he had 
forsaken the creed of Rome and accepted that of the 


A TEST OF FAITH. 


165 

Reformers. This frank avowal, unaccompanied as it 
was by any semblance of apology for the course pur- 
sued, was scarcely expected by those with whom he 
was to deal. They had supposed that he would 
evince some degree of humiliation and crave their 
consideration of the influences which had guided his 
action. The answer nonplussed them for a time, 
and it was evident to all that something more than 
mere bantering would be requisite to move him from 
his position, if, indeed, that were at all possible. 

The silence extended through several minutes. 
Meanwhile, Rudolph stood regarding the ecclesiastics 
by turns with a calm, though penetrating survey, as 
if he would read beneath their solemn faces the deep- 
est purpose of their hearts. Castriani was the first to 
speak. 

^‘Knowest thou not, young seignior,” he said, 
that the mandates of the Church are the supreme 
laws for the conscience? ” 

‘‘I do know it, good father,” was replied, defer- 
entially. But I beg to affirm that they must be the 
mandates of the Church of the First Born.” 

And dost thou deem that that can exist elsewhere 
than within the limits of the true apostolic line? ” 

Verily, I have reached the belief, though it may 
be regarded as presumption in me to announce it, 
that the true Church of Christ is the renewed heart ; 
and that no matter how pure the fountain may have 
been, the stream flowing therefrom could have become 
so sullied as to render its use deleterious rather than 
beneficial.” 


l66 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


*‘What! appliest thou that language to the holy 
succession? ” 

And Castriani, with a look of astonishment, crossed 
himself. His example was followed by the other three 
listeners. 

crave pardon if offense has been given,” re- 
plied Rudolph, with a low bow ; ‘ ‘ but I have been 
compelled to think that the simile is not an inapt 
one.” 

‘<By such utterances,” interposed Uhlricht, ‘^thou 
seemest to defy the Church rather than give due heed 
to her just demands.” 

Nay, reverend sirs,* I do not so design. Never- 
theless, it behooves me to respect and submit to my 
own sincere convictions, rather than to those of others, 
which, I have reason to fear, are not wholly founded 
upon the truth.” 

Alas 1 thou art very far gone out of the way,” said 
Castriani. 

pray you, good father,” responded Rudolph, 
with some animation, <^let me propound a single 
question.” 

Verily, are we here, then, to be catechised by a 
beardless youth?”, queried Volkmer, with well-as- 
sumed surprise. 

You are here, as I deem, to do justice,” was re- 
plied, with becoming modesty. 

^ * Ah, thou sayest well — ^justice. Bethink you 
what significance pertaineth to the word,” observed 
Uhlricht, emphasizing the expression. 

‘*Why, reverend fathers, you have me at an issue 


A TEST OF FAITH. 


167 


in which I may rightly assume to speak in my own 
defense, and most surely so, since I stand alone. 
Tell me, then, hold you your faith through constraint 
or choice ? ” and Rudolph glanced around upon the 
circle. 

From choice, truly,” responded Volkmer, quickly. 

Dost think our practices belie our convictions? ” 

‘ * Nay, I doubted not what would be your answer. 
Yet did I desire to show you thereby that it ill com- 
ports with the freedom you yourselves enjoy to debar 
me from indulging therein.” 

‘‘Why, what wilt thou assume? that the Church 
has no claims upon thee, .because, forsooth, thou 
choosest to inveigh against her creed ? Thou art still 
amenable to her laws,” came from Castriani. 

“Son Rudolph,” said count Rosenfeldt, impres- 
sively, “ trifle not with that which may become a too 
serious matter for you. You should know that these 
holy fathers are the best instructed touching sacred 
canons. It would better beseem you to give their 
weighty utterances most reverent attention. This 
done, a disavowal of your false faith will, doubtless, 
ensue.” 

“I shall listen with due respect, father, to what- 
ever may be advanced ; but I can accept nothing but 
what is veritable, and, therefore, right.” 

“Ha! now thou speakest wisely,” said Uhlricht, 
in a tone meant for the encouragement of the accused. 
‘ ‘ We can easily portray the right to thee, and reveal 
how fully it is embodied in all that ‘ Holy Mother 
Church’ maintains.” 


1 68 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Following this came a close examination of Ru- 
dolph touching all the points wherein he had di- 
verged from the Romish creed, and a full announce- 
ment of the fealty it required. This last was not a 
novelty to him. He had been familiar with the creed 
for many years. 

Having passed these topics, which were, in truth, 
but preliminaries, a protracted argument succeeded, 
during which . Castriani, who had been previously 
selected for this work because of his profound learn- 
ing and gift of speech, was the principal actor. 
Except that he listened respectfully and calmly, 
Rudolph, as the effort progressed, betrayed not the 
slightest evidence that he was yielding to the views 
advanced, and which were most earnestly urged upon 
his attention. 

How sayest thou now, seignior Rudolph?” 
asked Volkmer, at the conclusion of the argument. 

Canst thou not behold in these most scholarly and 
pious representations that thy only course is penitently 
to return to thy vows, and accept with Christian zest 
the holy offices and healthful influences of the 
Church thou hast so wilfully ignored ? ” 

Nay, good father, you would hasten me unduly,” 
replied Rudolph. Such an array of weighty con- 
siderations should receive deliberate regard. I will 
ponder them well, if you so allow, for the space of 
some hours, and, if persuaded that my course has 
been erroneous, will freely yield assent to your desires 
without a moment’s further parlance.” 

The other parties to the inquisition exchanged looks 


A TEST OF FAITH. 169 

with each other, when Castriani, confident that he 
spoke the feeling of his associates, said : 

“ We deem it not improper to grant thy request, 
seignior. Digest fully the statements and proofs to 
which thou hast listened, so that by to-morrow at 
this hour thou mayest be prepared to announce thy 
recantation.” 

By my faith, good brother Castriani,” interrupted 
Volkmer, hastily, methinks thou allowest a broad 
margin for the review of thy most lucid and convinc- 
ing facts.” 

‘‘Let not thy zeal be over-urgent, worthy brother. 
It is meet that we bear patiently with the cherished 
son of our most noble and loyal friend, the count 
Rosenfeldt. To cast him off upon an immediate and 
unfavorable response to our inquiries, would, doubt- 
less, be discourteous to our generous host, and 
eternally destructive to the offender.” 

As all the rest seemed to accept this view, the 
monk, with well-feigned reluctance, yielded the 
point, and the delay was concluded upon. 

Except the hours needed for sleep, Rudolph spent 
most of the time allotted to him with his mother. He 
had two or three brief interviews with the count, 
which the latter employed in effort to aid the young 
man’s recantation. But no committal in either direc- 
tion was secured. 

Rudolph, in seeking this delay, had no expectation 
that he would, at its conclusion, renounce his present 
belief. But he had some misgivings, that should he 
be required to decide promptly, his refusal to succumb 


170 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 

would be followed by his immediate transfer from the 
castle, and confinement in some place that would pre- 
vent further communication with his mother. 

At the appointed hour, the count appeared for the 
purpose of again conducting Rudolph to the presence 
of the fathers. This second leave-taking of his 
mother for the purpose of examination, was more of 
a trial to both than appeared on the surface. The 
countess was oppressed with the thought that she 
might never again look into his face. Though believ- 
ing that she could trust Volkmer so far as he had the 
ability to act, she was sadly conscious that something 
might intervene to render him powerless at a critical 
juncture. Rudolph also deemed his condition a 
perilous one. In his case, not even the hope that a 
friend, ready to exert himself in his behalf, if need 
be, tended to relieve the solemnity of the parting. 
But, as intimated, only a faint expression of these 
emotions was manifested by either. He did not know 
the extent of his mother’s solicitude ; nor did she 
become aware of the strength of his fear touching the 
outcome of fhis second conclave. But she had been 
fully advised of his decision. Yet this, while it was 
a source of deep regret to her, was, relatively, regarded 
as of secondary import. As a last act, after having 
whispered a word of caution in his ear, the countess 
tenderly kissed him, and immediately turned away 
to repress, or, at least, to hide the tears which seemed 
swelling from her inmost heart. 

The fathers were awaiting their coming. Soon after 
they entered the room, Castriani said : 


A TEST OF FAITH. 171 

^‘Seignior Rudolph, hast thou diligently consid- 
ered our counsels of yesterday? ” 

have,” was the simple and direct response. 

‘‘And hast convinced thyself of their importance 
and wisdom, we trust.” 

“ I hesitate not to affirm their importance, what- 
ever the influence they may have exerted. Nor do I 
question their wisdom, so far as they relate to the in- 
terests of the Church,” said Rudolph, bowing re- 
spectfully. 

“Nay, thou evadest our endeavor with, methinks, 
a vein of irony in thy reply.” 

“Attempt no effort, my son, to reflect upon the 
dignity and righteousness of those with whom you 
now have to do,” came from the count, in a some- 
what mandatory tone. “ The purpose for which we 
have met is far too grave to admit of trifling in the 
smallest degree.” 

“Verily, my noble father, I so comprehend it,” 
came quickly, though calmly from Rudolph. “ You 
misinterpret my estimate of what was referred to. 
Well aware am I that this is most serious business, as 
it concerns myself ; and it would ill become me to 
exhibit a lightness or indifference which I am far from 
realizing.” 

“Thus far thou revealest thy good judgment,” 
responded Castriani. “But thou touchest not the 
core of the matter which we are here to consider. 
What is thy decision concerning thy faith ? ” 

“ I fail to see my way clear, good fathers, for a re- 
turn to the creed of Rome.” 


1/2 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 

‘<What! Art thou still wilful and presuming?" 
exclaimed Uhlricht. 

And dost thou so lightly esteem thine own wel- 
fare?" came from Volkmer, with seeming astonish- 
ment. 

*^Nay, Rudolph, I beseech you, shadow not your 
own path," urged the count, in a tone which clearly 
indicated his fear of the issue. 

I must obey conscience and adhere to my con- 
victions," said Rudolph, measuring his words as if 
they were jewels of which he well knew the worth. 

Alas ! art thou utterly incorrigible ? " came from 
his father, with an emphasis that sent a pang of grief 
into the young man’s heart. 

“And perverse, withal?" added Volkmer. 

“ And audacious? " said Uhlricht, with darkening 
brow. 

“For the love we bear to thy most pious parents, we 
do entreat thee, seignior Rudolph, to reconsider thy 
decision," importuned Castriani. 

“Why, reverend sirs, what would you?" cried 
Rudolph, as if the thought that he was exposed to 
serious danger, had, for the first, dawned upon him. 

“Thouaskest a question to which, according to 
thine own assurance in our presence, thou hast seen 
practical answers given during thy recent sojourn in 
Spain. Yet is the Church disposed to be merciful 
and long-suffering to her recreant sons. Do not per- 
sist in urging thyself before a tribunal whose legiti- 
mate functions are to coerce thy submission." 


A TEST OF FAITH. 


173 


Your words, father Castriani, though foreshadow- 
ing tests of the severest kind, do not, while they sad- 
den my heart, weaken my purpose. But, methinks, 
the consent of my godly parents must first be secured 
ere you can rightfully resort to the arbitrary measures 
you indicate,” said Rudolph, with a steady voice, 
though, inwardly, he was not a little disturbed in 
view of the ordeal that seemed to threaten him. As 
previously indicated, he had surmised such a possi- 
bility, yet, now that it menaced him, it seemed 
clothed with a hideousness it had not hitherto as- 
sumed. 

Thy godly parents, as thou most fittingly callest 
them, have not been disregarded in our dealings with 
thee. It is our high appreciation of their loyalty to 
the faith that has gained for thee the leniency already 
granted. But well convinced are they that the de- 
mands of the Church are superior to their own ; and, 
methinks, we mistake not in assuming that thou also 
art not ignorant of the fact.” 

* ‘ Reverend fathers, I am advised of what you say, 
and will, further, acknowledge that in Italy and 
Spain, and even in the Netherlands, the Church dom- 
inates the State. But here, in Germany, notwith- 
standing the court is Catholic, the laws do not con- 
strain obedience to Rome.” 

Verily, thy words betray the slight information 
thou hast concerning our holy order,” said Uhlricht, 
with a sinister smile. Thou shouldst know that we 
permit no simply human enactments or mandates to 


1/4 RUDOLPH OF- ROSENFELDT. 


take precedence of the will of God as promulgated by 
* Holy Mother Church.’ Our purposes burrow their 
way in the dark when they may not be revealed in 
the light of the sun.” 

Alas ! I have no means of escape, then, save it 
be through the interposition of my father, _ the power- 
ful count of Rosenfeldt. How say you, my hitherto 
indulgent parent ? Am I to be yielded up to the full 
control of those who would deprive me perforce of 
that which I esteem dearer than life — my faith in 
God?” 

“ Nay, you know, my cherished Rudolph, that, un- 
der any other circumstances, I would woo death rather 
than that you should suffer affliction. But unless I 
myself become treacherous to my deepest convictions, 
I am powerless to protect you against whatever sever- 
ity the Church may deem expedient to employ,” re- 
plied the count, as his eyes filled with tears, while his 
parental love struggled to break the heavy links which 
held his will to the faith of Rome. 

Thou seest there is but one way by which thou 
mayest escape becoming subject to more disrelishable 
measures than any yet employed to effect thy recan- 
tation,” said Volkmer, impressively. <*And Ido 
beseech thee, young seignior, by the love thou bear- 
est to the fair Christina ; by the prospect of becom- 
ing thy father’s successor to these estates and titles ; 
and by the surety of peace which thy soul will need 
at the end of this life and in the life to come, not to 
disregard this solitary opportunity that still invites 
thee.” 


A TEST OF FAITH. 


175 


‘<Ah me! it is a dismal portrayal,” responded 
Rudolph, with a bitterness of tone he had not before 
employed. ^MVell do I know, father Volkmer, that 
you could have made no closer appeal to the worldly 
side of my heart than through the first two consider- 
ations urged. Yet, whatever fate may await me, 
yield I must not. The treasure which this breast 
contains is beyond all price — above all the choicest 
boons earth has to bestow. To tempt or threaten me 
further, is needless. Though I stand utterly alone, 
it behooves me not to depart, even so much as the 
fraction of a hair’s breadth from the principles that 
bind me to the eternal and omnipotent Christ, in 
whose name, professedly, you seek to force me from 
him.” 

Rudolph’s closing sentences were expressed in a 
different tone from that with which he began. His 
voice grew firmer ; his eyes brighter ; his attitude 
became more dignified ; and an inspiration, evidently 
not of earth, imparted a courage to his soul that 
would enable him to dare and die for the faith to 
which he clung. 

“Holy Mother!” exclaimed Castriani, crossing 
himself. 

“ Thou art steeped in folly beyond the reach of 
words,” said Uhlricht. “Brethren, what recourse 
have we but to pass to more substantial arguments ? ” 

“ Not any. It is his choice,” came from Volkmer, 
with a most determined look. 

Castriani arose, moved several paces away, and 
beckoned all, save Rudolph, to approach him. A 


176 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


brief conference, in a low tone, followed. At its 
conclusion he turned to the young man and said ; 

We will deal further with thee, ere many hours. 
Meanwhile thou shalt remain in this room under close 
survey.” 


CHAPTER XIV. 


HOURS OF SUSPENSE. 



UDOLPH ROSENFELDT was a prisoner in 


1 \ his father’s castle. Being without a definite 
idea concerning the fate that awaited him, he indulged 
in all manner of forebodings, the depressing influence 
of which, not even his firm faith was adequate to 
destroy. To him, the sluggish hours seemed to move 
on wings of lead. The night that ere long followed 
the eventful interview just given was a dismal and 
portentious one, increasing, by its gloom, the sombre- 
ness of his mournful contemplations. Until a late 
hour, father Volkmer and the Jesuits remained with 
him. Very little, in the way of intercourse, how- 
ever, had passed between the three brethren, and not 
a word between them and the prisoner. At length, 
the count, who had divided his time, since the exami- 
nation, in visiting that and other portions of the cas- 
tle, reentered the room and quietly informed the 
churchmen that a repast awaited them in the large 
dining hall. This was a welcome announcement, as 
they had been subjected to a somewhat lengthy fast. 
But it being deemed prudent that one should remain 
until the other two returned, Volkmer was selected, 
who, while expressing a willingness to stay, was care- 
ful not to appear desirous of doing so. Nevertheless, 


12 


(177) 


178 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


he had his plans in which this trivial and unexpected 
incident was made to serve an interesting part. 

For several minutes after the Jesuits and their host 
had retired, the room was as quiet as the grave. Ru- 
dolph, seated upon a stool, with his head buried in 
his hands, had scarcely changed his position for the 
past hour. Except that his mental disturbance was 
pretty well understood by those who shared the apart- 
ment with him, they might have concluded that he 
was wrapped in peaceful slumber. But of one thing 
they were not aware. It was the fact that beneath 
the dejecting thoughts which coursed through his 
mind, there was a quiet confidence in the Christ of 
the early Church, whose consoling presence never for- 
sook his disciples, however hot the persecution or 
ignominious the death which fell to their lot. To 
that extent was he affected by this consciousness that 
he was scarcely sensible of being alone. Certainly, 
he failed to regard the movements of the monk, who, 
at length, arose and moved close to his side, where 
he stood for a brief time regarding him with a look 
which would have defied any effort to interpret it. 
Presently, he laid a hand upon the prisoner’s shoulder. 
Rudolph started, as if suddenly awakened from a 
sound sleep. 

“Verily, young seignior,” said Volkmer, “thou 
betrayest more nervousness than thy firmness of to-day 
would seem to warrant thee in possessing; for I can 
scarcely conjecture that thou didst slumber.” 

This was spoken in tones just above a whisper. 

“Nay, good father, I slumbered not; but my 


HOURS OF SUSPENSE. 179 

thoughts were of a cast to render me oblivious to my 
surroundings,” replied Rudolph, mournfully. 

‘‘So I deem them to have been. And I have 
diverted thee from them for a brief moment to advise 
thee on this wise : whatever thou knowest me to do or 
say while I am yet with thee, act as I, by word or 
movement, may suggest. Nay, question me not, but 
answer briefly the two or three inquiries I am about 
to propound. Knowest thou Franz Alstoph, the 
tinker, at Wiesbaden?” 

“ I do. Or I may say, rather, I know his shop.” 

‘ ‘ Art thou well accustomed to the by-paths and 
passes hereabouts?” 

“Ay — for leagues in all directions, good father. 
I ” 

‘ ‘ Hush ! Thou hast answered me. Art thou fleet 
of foot?” 

“ Yes ; as the gazelle, should need be.” 

“ Then get thee to thy meditations again ; but for- 
get not my counsel,” and the monk returned to his 
seat to repeat the silence this brief colloquy inter- 
rupted. 

Whatever musings engrossed Volkmer’s mind, those 
of Rudolph’s had certainly been deflected to another 
channel. The reason for these interrogatories, he 
could not divine. Hope whispered, while fear dis- 
couraged, the idea of escape. But where, if such a 
thing were possible, was to be the starting point for 
liberty? Under what combination of circumstances 
would it present itself, if at all ? He could not tell. 
And, save the fact that he was a prisoner, held, 


l80 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


evidently, to be further importuned, and, probably, 
tortured, he had not the slightest conception regarding 
the measures to which he was to be subjected. Never- 
theless, he clung to the emotion of hope, that the 
monk’s words had awakened, as to a thread of gold 
which might snap at any moment and let him plunge 
into a more/ disagreeable experience than the one he 
realized. 

When the Jesuits returned, after a somewhat pro- 
tracted absence, the count accompanied them, bear- 
ing, in his own hands, an ample meal for Rudolph. 
The latter felt no desire for food, as the agitation of 
his mental and emotional natures, had not only with- 
drawn his attention from his physical needs, but had, 
for the time being, rendered them insignificant. 
Nevertheless, he partook of what was set before him, 
not knowing if he should ever again be supplied from 
his father’s bounty, and ignorant of the kind and 
amount of food, if any, he might be provided with 
under the circumstances that awaited him. 

This act of his father, tended in no degree, to 
relieve Rudolph’s mind of its apprehensions. On the 
contrary, it indicated continued custody, and sug- 
gested the thought that one design was to obviate 
any attempt by him to again communicate with his 
mother. If the idea were correct, he could assign 
only two reasons for his being subjected to such 
deprivation ; first, a desire to thus increase his punish- 
ment; and, secondly, to withhold from him any 
counsel or means with which the countess might 
furnish him to encourage escape. The fact that the 


HOURS OF SUSPENSE. 


I8l 


Jesuits, especially, had a further object to secure by 
this means, did not enter his mind. But such was, 
indeed, the case. The design was based upon the 
religious status of the countess as it was gauged 
beyond her own domestic circle ; for it must be under- 
stood that she was more of a Catholic to the members 
of the household, including the servants, than she was 
in the estimation of her large coterie of friends, not 
excluding those of them embraced in the various 
holy orders of the Church. It was also conjectured 
that certain contingencies were possible which would 
Hot only withdraw her sympathy from, but render her 
antagonistic to, the Roman code of faith. Neither 
of these views were misconceptions of the truth. And 
it was the entertaining of both which led the prince 
of Orange, when about to part with Rudolph at Ant- 
werp, to encourage him in the belief that her influence 
with the count, would ensure him ample protection 
at home. Castriani and Uhlricht were, therefore, 
not without a basis for their mistrust. They feared 
that her counsels would tend to strengthen rather than 
discourage Rudolph in his defection, and, hence, 
render their labors more arduous, and the nieans 
necessary to secure his recantation, more severe; for 
they expected him to yield at some point short of 
death in the process designed. 

Very soon after the return of the count and the 
Jesuits to the room, the former, accompanied by 
Volkmer, once more retired to the dining hall. 
When the monk had concluded his repast, his host 
inquired : 


1 82 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

*<Will you wait upon the countess again before 
departing?” 

**Yes, faith; if it accord with thy wishes and 
hers.” 

<^Be assured that it will favor us both, good father. 
The countess seems disposed to greater confidence in 
your judgment than in that of the brethren. It is 
her conviction that if Rudolph can be restored to the 
Church, your influence must effect the change. She 
is not a little disturbed concerning the further devel- 
opment of our efforts, and if you can allay her fears 
as you did but yesterday, you will render a service of 
which we shall not be unmindful.” 

* ‘ Thanks, worthy count ; I need no inducement 
other than the felt pleasure of performing a holy 
deed. What may be the outcome of this business is, 
as yet, but conjectural. It is one of those most dis- 
relishable affairs in which nothing is definite save the 
lacerating suspense that involves all connected there- 
with. The countess, no less than thyself — and, pos- 
sibly, more — is grievously exercised over it and 
should receive whatever of consolation it is within 
our power to bestow. I await thy readiness and her 
convenience, noble Rosenfeldt.” 

* * Then I will straightway ascertain her pleasure, ’ ’ 
said the count. And he left the apartment. 

After the lapse of a few minutes, he returned and 
invited the monk to follow him. They were soon in 
the presence of the countess, who received Volkmer 
graciously and directed him to be seated. The count 
remained scarcely a minute, leaving the two to con- 


HOURS OF SUSPENSE. 


183 


verse alone. The interview which ensued, though a 
brief one, evidently gave mutual satisfaction, as the 
lady appeared much more tranquil, and the monk 
more cheerful than when they came together. This 
result, however, while it relieved Rosenfeldt of pres- 
ent anxiety concerning his wife, failed to lessen his 
solicitude regarding Rudolph. Indeed, his disquiet 
touching the latter’s case constantly increased. It 
required all his faith in the creed to which he clung ; 
all the loyalty of which he was capable ; and all the 
burning desire he felt for the young man’s restoration 
to his churchly vows to restrain him from relieving 
Rudolph from further tests, and dismissing those who 
were conducting the inquisition. He had deliberately 
invited the ordeal by summoning those upon whom he 
had fixed for making the examination. Whatever, 
therefore, might be the results, he had no choice but 
to submit to the methods employed, even though, in 
the end, he was left without a child and his estates 
and titles without an heir. 

Wilt thou accompany us to St. Marie ? ” inquired 
Volkmer, as they were threading the long passage- 
ways to rejoin the brethren. 

“ Alas, good father, I am puzzled to know wherein 
my duty lies,” answered the count, sadly. mis- 
trust that my presence there would sustain Rudolph 
in the belief that I would not permit a test of too 
great severity — a conviction well calculated to encour- 
age his tenacious spirit and render abortive all effort 
to affect him favorably.” 

Thou entertainest a most proper view, noble 


1 84 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

count. And but for it, in conjunction with the 
increased suffering thou thyself, being his father, 
wouldst undergo, I, for one, would insist upon thy 
attending us thither.” 

thank you, heartily, for such consideration, 
holy father.” 

There is, also, another motive for thy continuance 
here, worthy Rosenfeldt,” said the monk, with appar- 
ent feeling. The countess, whom you may now 
regard as hoodwinked, to a certain extent, touching 
the disposition of the youth, will, ere long, suspect 
our dealings with him, and her consequent grief will 
be of such a cast that no one but thyself will be com- 
petent to afford her consolation. Thou comprehend- 
est my intent.” 

do; and it reveals your correct estimate of cir- 
cumstances. I will remain here, unless the brethren 
overrule us both.” 

The Jesuits favored Volkmer’s view, and suggested 
the count’s absence at the time of their departure, 
which was to take place at midnight. As the hour 
was rapidly approaching, Rosenfeldt remained but a 
few minutes in the room. 

Before retiring, however, he made another most 
earnest appeal to Rudolph to yield. Both father and 
son were deeply affected. But the young man re- 
mained firm. Hitherto, he had not really expected 
that his inquisitors would go to such an extreme as to 
remove him from his home in order to accomplish 
their end, though such a possibility had not been 
overlooked by him; indeed, Volkmer’s questions 


HOURS OF SUSPENSE, 185 

seemed to foreshadow such a course. Now, his fath- 
er’s importunity, and withdrawal from the room, 
indicated a change of proceedings toward him, 
though the nature of that change he could not sur- 
mise. But he would protest against leaving the cas- 
tle, if that course were required. 

The church of St. Marie was less than a league dis- 
tant from Rosenfeldt castle. Though neither a large 
nor very attractive edifice, viewed from without, it was 
quite tastefully arranged and decorated in the inte- 
rior, and embraced, besides the space visible on enter- 
ing, a much larger area under ground, portions of 
which, including cells, were many feet beneath the 
surface. Here were to be seen sundry instruments 
of torture, which, not unfrequently since the dawn of 
the Reformation, had smoked with the warm blood 
of the heretic, and in some instances, compelled his 
return to the Church, though, in the main, the tests 
had been endured with heroic firmness, to the end — 
the victim yielding up his life in attestation of the 
power of that faith to which he so devoutly clung. 

The withdrawal of the count was the signal for 
commencing preparations for the nocturnal journey. 
The first act was to tie Rudolph’s hands behind him. 
This was done with a strong cord of boar’s hide, 
placed just above the wrist joints, and in such a man- 
ner as to leave his hands sufficiently free to carry a 
weight of about ten pounds. The latter was attached 
to the end of a chain nearly a yard in length, which 
was to be securely fastened, at the other end, to one 
of his ankles by a stout strap and buckle. This, 


1 86 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


however, was not to be adjusted until the time for 
leaving arrived. Sundry minor arrangements per- 
taining to the prisoner’s apparel, were then attended 
to. Afterwards, the fathers proceeded to put them- 
selves in readiness. These entire operations required 
but a few minutes time for their accomplishment. 
Castriani then produced and lighted a small lamp — 
similar to those used by burglars at the present day. 
The final act was to adjust the chain and ball — the 
latter being placed in Rudolph’s hands. This he 
would be permitted to carry so long as he obeyed the 
commands of his custodians. 

Thus secured, an attempt to escape by flight would 
have been a foolhardy undertaking. Of this fact, 
Rudolph was well aware ; and, as a consequence, the 
frail hope which Volkmer’s mysterious questions and 
counsel had awakened, died out of his breast, and he 
realized, as he had not done hitherto, that the ordeal 
through which he was passing, involved his recanta- 
tion or his death. 

<< Where is my father?” he cried, in a wailing 
tone, as a small door in the wall, on one side of the 
room, opened at the touch of a spring. 

**Thou wilt see him anon, perchance,” said Cas- 
triani, stooping to pass the low doorway. Mean- 
while, thou mayest accept us for his substitutes. Fol- 
low where I lead.” 

**Nay, churchmen! Christians, if you be such, 
this is treachery I ” exclaimed Rudolph, in a tone 
that at once betrayed anger, astonishment, and grief. 

** Thou pratest foolishly, unworthy scion of a most 


HOURS OF SUSPENSE. 


18/ 


noble house," replied Volkmer, peering into the 
youth’s face, with a peculiar look. ^‘Dost think it 
an easy matter to break away from thy soul’s salva- 
tion ? *• Holy Mother Church ’ is not so vile an 

enemy of thine as to permit thee to rush with un- 
restrained rashness to thine own destruction. I coun- 
sel thee to seal thy lips and move as thou art bidden.’’ 

Faith, he will learn wisdom, good father, by 
heeding thy words, for I have that with me which 
will compel his silence, if gentler means prove not 
effective.’’ 

This language proceeded from Uhlricht. It was 
of such an emphatic character as to convince Rudolph 
that resistance on his part would be useless, and that 
if any opportunity for freeing himself from his pres- 
ent plight was to be presented, it must be awaited 
with greater patience than what he had just shown. 
He determined to follow the monk’s advice, though 
it seemed not to tally with his utterances when they 
were alone. 


CHAPTER XV. 


A STRANGE FREAK OF FORTUNE. 


OTWITHSTANDING most of Rudolph’s life 



IN had been spent in Rosenfeldt castle, he had 
remained utterly ignorant of the passage-way into 
which he now entered. He was not, however, greatly 
surprised to learn of its existence, as he was aware 
that similar ones were connected with many of the old 
feudal homes scattered over the country. On first 
entering it, a chill coursed through his frame, the 
effect, partly, of a feeling akin to trepidation, and, 
partly, to the heavy, almost vapid atmosphere which 
he inhaled. But he moved forward, silently, close 
behind Castriani, while Volkmer and Uhlricht fol- 
lowed. The small lamp threw a dim, weird light 
over the rough walls, which enclosed only sufficient 
space for one person to pass at a time. 

At the end of about thirty feet, a stone stairway 
was reached which descended a half score of steps, 
when it took a sudden turn at right angles to its 
former course and continued the same distance to a 
second level. For a little space, this followed the 
direction of the last flight of steps, and then by an- 
other angle was restored to the same course as the one 
above stairs. Although Rudolph had never traversed 
the passage before, he knew very well what portion of 


(188) 


A STRANGE FREAK OF FORTUNE. 189 


the building they were in through his complete knowl- 
edge of its exterior contour. But he was soon to lose 
his bearings. A little further on their direction was 
again changed. This time toward the interior. At 
length, they reached a winding stairway, down which 
they continued to go for so long a time that the pris- 
oner was sure they had passed below the surface of the 
lowest floor of the structure. Once more they struck 
a level and pursued it for a long distance, when Cas- 
triani halted and began an examination of the wall to 
his right. The reason for this stoppage was that the 
passage at this point came, to all appearances, to a 
sudden termination. For several minutes the Jesuit 
scanned the stones and joints of the wall closely. 
Having, at last, evidently found the object of his 
search, he drew from under his habit a piece of iron 
a few inches in length, and, placing one end of it, 
which tapered almost to a point, into a triangular 
aperture just large enough to admit it, and which ap- 
peared to have been caused by the loosening and fall- 
ing away of a bit of mortar, he pushed with consid- 
erable force. Something that the iron came in con- 
tact with, yielded to the pressure, and, instantly, a 
massive stone, hinged, on its farthest edge, to the ma- 
sonry terminating the passage, swung inwardly and re- 
vealed a subterranean way, cut out of the solid rock. 
Much to the relief of Rudolph and his custodians, 
there was a perceptible improvement in the atmos- 
phere which they now began to inhale, and the former 
was confident that they were soon to pass to the out- 
side. He was not disappointed. After they had en- 


IQO RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


tered the rocky tunnel, and Uhlricht had carefully re- 
adjusted the massive door, which, on the inside face 
had been chisled to conform to the layers of stone, 
and on the exterior, to represent rough rock, they 
again moved forward, and, at the end of a dozen paces, 
reached the mouth of the passage against which a 
round stone was so placed that, by removing a bar, it 
could be rolled back and exit secured. Through this 
opening they were ushered into a natural, wedge-like 
crevice, which, though narrow at the point where they 
entered it, was open at the top, and widened rapidly 
to its outer terminus, a short distance away. On 
leaving it, Castriani led his followers along close to 
the declivity upon which the castle was located, and 
which, at this point, was nearly perpendicular. This 
course was necessary, as a thick growth of bushes ran 
parallel with and near to the precipice, and, at the 
end of a rod, completely closed the passage itself, thus 
compelling them to push their way through next to 
the rocky wall. 

Being now well beyond the confines of the castle, 
which, owing to the barriers nature had furnished for 
its protection on that side, was not defended by arti- 
ficial means, the small party had a choice of paths for 
continuing the journey. When all had emerged from 
the bushes, Castriani extinguished his light, and then 
began descending the slope, which for many rods on 
either hand, inclined from the base of the cliff to a 
partially wooded and somewhat tortuous ravine. This 
was reached at the end of several minutes. Rudolph, 
oppressed with a sense of his situation and the pcssi- 


A STRANGE ERE AN OF FORTUNE. 191 

bilities before him, halted at the bottom of the slope, 
and, almost instinctively, turned to take what he 
deemed might be a farewell survey of his birthplace 
and the home to which his affections so ardently 
clung. But he had scarcely lifted his eyes to the 
dimly outlined mass frowning darkly above him, 
when Volkmer interrupted his design by saying, in 
stern, low tones : 

** Why tarriest thou here, young sirrah? Knowest 
thou not that the business upon which we are bent is 
too pressing to brook delays ? ’ ’ 

Rudolph was not unmindful of the humiliating 
style of address used by the monk. But he was too 
deeply moved by other emotions to show that it 
affected him. He was constrained, however, by his 
own feelings far more than by the inquiries made, to 
respond ; which he immediately did. 

“Nay, holy father, bethink you that I know not 
what my fate is to be, and, hence, you would bestow 
but a light boon in permitting me once more, even 
under cover of darkness, to look upon a home so well 
beloved by me as this of mine, since it may be my 
last opportunity so to do.” 

“Speak softly, sirrah. Remember, thou art but a 
prisoner now, and extreme caution well befits thee if 
thou art allowed to indulge in discourse of any kind. 
But thou mayest not retard our movements by feign- 
ing these longings for blessings which thy stubborn 
persistence in heretical beliefs indicates are held by 
thee in very light esteem.” 

“Alas, thou ratest me wrongfully,” said Rudolph, 


192 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


exhibiting much feeling in his muffled tones. ‘‘More 
than words can express do I estimate what you refer 
to. But I cannot forego greater blessings in order to 
retain those so long enjoyed, and from which I may 
at once forever pass.” 

“ Thy language is but childish prating,” responded 
Uhlricht, interposing. “But thou hast a choice; 
and may the Holy Virgin enable thee to make a wise 
one when thine eyes are opened, as we design they 
shall be ere our duties toward thee terminate.” 

“What is it you intend? Pray tell me that?” 
asked Rudolph, with some bitterness of manner. 

“Nay, good brethren,” observed Castriani, “we 
but waste words and minutes by thus rehearsing 
arguments already exhausted. There needs some- 
thing more convincing and we must not loiter until 
it be employed. Let us hasten on.” 

“Thou hast spoken wisely, brother Castriani. 
Lead us on. Which course wilt thou take ? ” 

“ Knowest thou the little pass of Inslau, good Volk- 
mer ? ” 

“Marry, yes; fairly well, if thou meanest the one 
through which rushes the crazy torrent of Litzen.” 

“ It is the same.” 

“Is it thy design to pursue that way ? ” 

“ I had so intended, as it is much the shorter course. 
Is it to thy liking ? ” 

“ Faith, no. It is a rough passage, and it occurred 
to me that it might not be the safest one, as we are 
conditioned. But I shall yield to thy judgment.” 


A STRANGE FREAK OF FORTUNE, 193 


‘‘How thinkest thou, Uhlricht?” inquired Cas- 
triani of his brother Jesuit. 

“ I opine that we will gain something and lose 
nothing by using the pass; though with brother 
Volkmer, I defer to thee,” was replied. 

“Then let us go forward,” said Volkmer, who, 
had he been disposed, could have revealed his pleasure 
at the course decided upon, as well as his satisfaction 
at not having felt compelled to urge it against the 
inclination of his companions. 

During the brief conversation just held, Volkmer 
had used the opportunity to change, in a quiet way, 
the order in which they had been moving, so that 
when they started off, Uhlricht was between Castriani 
and Rudolph, while Volkmer himself brought up the 
rear. But as the prisoner was so well secured against 
escape, and as not the slightest suspicion of treachery 
on the part of Volkmer was entertained by the Jesuits, 
they made no allusion to the change effected. 

In this way the journey was continued with 
scarcely an exchange of words until they entered the 
pass referred to, which was nearly a mile from the 
Rosenfeldt castle. At this point, Volkmer suggested 
that they slacken their speed somewhat, as he was not 
familiar with the way, which was quite uneven ; and 
besides, the prisoner was so fettered and burdened 
that he was likely to meet with accident unless he 
moved with deliberation. The Jesuits, recognizing 
the force of the suggestion, proceeded more slowly. 
The little company kept quite close together until they 
came to a part of the pass which, for some distance, 
13 


194 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


descended quite rapidly. Here, the stream that ran 
parallel with and only a few feet from the path, 
became a plunging, roaring torrent, rendering it 
almost impossible to converse, or to hear any other 
sound. They had moved but a few steps down this 
descent, when Volkmer, watching his opportunity, 
drew close up behind Rudolph, and placing his lips 
close to the young man’s ear, whispered : 

I will cut the cord that binds thy hands and then 
drop back a space. This do thou, also ; but not to 
the same extent. Move on as now, keeping close 
watch upon the leaders, and at the first chance, 
loosen the strap at thy ankle, and passing me, haste, 
with thy utmost speed to Alstoph at Wiesbaden. 
Dost understand? ” 

Rudolph nodded affirmatively. 

The next instant, Volkmer drew a small dagger 
from his habit, and after severing and removing the 
cord at the prisoner’s wrists, flung both it and the 
weapon into the rushing stream. A dozen paces 
further on, Rudolph stooped down, unbuckled the 
strap attached to the chain, and then resumed his 
upright position. It was the work of but a few 
seconds. A minute later he turned suddenly, and, 
bounding past Volkmer, who fell to the ground as he 
flew by, was soon lost to sight in the darkness. His 
escape was almost immediately discovered by the 
Jesuits, and they hastened to pursue him, unaware of 
Volkmer’s seeming plight. On reaching the latter, 
they found him struggling in an effort to regain his 
feet. 


A STRANGE FREAK OF FORTUNE. 195 


“ How happened this misfortune, good brother 
Volkmer?” hastily inquired Castriani. 

^ ‘ Nay ; verily, thou must answer thine own ques- 
tion, for I can scarcely tell what has come to pass. 
Were it not for my firm faith in ‘Mother Church,’ I 
should say that one of the genii of Arabian Night’s 
fame had made me his toy, to be knocked about as he 
listed. Did no one pass you ? ” 

“Surely, no. It was, doubtless, contact with the 
prisoner that felled thee.’’ 

“ What ! Is he not here ? ” 

“ Marry, not he.” 

“Mean you that he has fled?” came Volkmer’s 
apparently surprised inquiry. 

“ Faith, I know not how else to designate his 
absence,” answered Castriani. “ He seems to have 
disappeared with the speed of thought. One minute 
we saw him, and the next he was invisible.” 

“ Why, such was my own observation,” said Volk- 
mer, who had now gained his feet. “ I marked him 
narrowly, most of the time ; and scarcely five seconds 
prior to my mishap, beheld him moving at his ordinary 
gait. But as I am not greatly familiar with this 
miserable passage-way, it behooved me to divide my 
attention betwixt young Rosenfeldt and the ground. 
I had scarcely withdrawn my eyes from him at the last, 
when there was a rush, and down I went ; but, thanks 
to the Blessed Virgin, not into yon boiling flood ; and, 
so far as I discover, without receiving any noteworthy 
injury.” 

“ Thou hast been most fortunate, brother Volk-^ 


ig6 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


mer,” came from Uhlricht. But as for the crafty 
scape-goat that has taken to his heels with all his sins 
upon him, who can say whither he has gone ? ” 

*‘Nay j get the wind to name its course, and thou 
wilt be wiser than was Nicodemus ; though, even then 
thou wilt fail to comprehend the direction the youth 
has pursued without either our permission or beni- 
sons,” said Castriani. 

Verily, he is a renegade who knows how to 
increase distance behind him,” responded Volkmer. 

But, unless my ingenuity is not worth an Ave 
Maria, I shall secure him ere long in a net that may 
not be so easily broken.” 

Thou wilt find him first, good Volkmer,” observed 
Uhlricht. 

^‘Ay, will I. But mark you, not at his father’s castle.” 

^‘Surely, no. He is as accustomed to these parts 
as a fish is to water ; and, doubtless, is aware of a score 
of resorts which would be nearly as difficult for us to 
discover as is the philosopher’s stone.” 

“Mayhap, brother Castriani,” said Volkmer. 
“ But we be miserable dogs, truly, if there is no nos- 
ing our way to him. Has he fled with all his encum- 
brances, think you? ” 

“ I trow not. He is scarcely so foolhardy as to 
undertake so hopeless a venture,” replied Castriani. 
“ I warrant you we shall find the weight and chain 
hereabouts,” and, with the other two, he began a 
search of the ground. This occupied but little time, 
as the objects sought lay but a short distance back of 
the spot where Volkmer fell. 


A STRANGE FREAK OF FORTUNE. 197 

Marry, the strap is unbuckled. I marvel how he 
could have accomplished so much with his hands 
securely pinioned,” said Uhlricht. 

‘‘That thou didst for him,” observed Volkmer. 

“ I did. And thou mayest opine that it was well 
done. By what means he disencumbered himself 
baffles my skill to determine, unless it be that some 
sulphurous imp came to his rescue.” 

“ Well, well; we shall ascertain from his own lips, 
if ever,” said Castriani. “ But be that as it may, it 
is useless for us to remain here longer. ’ ' 

“Whither will you, good brother?” asked Uhl- 
richt. 

“Back to the castle, I should say, to inform the 
noble count how deeply steeped in sin is his would- 
be heir.” 

“And how deeply steeped in disappointment are 
we,” added Uhlricht. 

“ Alack, it is a most unseemly miscarriage of our 
plans,” came from Volkmer. “The count will 
scarcely thank us for our pains. But we have done 
our best.” 

“Verily, have we; and he will not be so unman- 
nerly as to charge us with looseness or trickery. You 
will return with us, of course, brother Volkmer? ” 

“Yes. A portion of the way, at least. I have 
some mistrust as to the direction this renegade heretic 
has taken, and incline to the belief that I can entrap 
him ere the close of another day, if I follow his trail 
with all possible dispatch.” 

“ Methinks thou would St better wait for the day- 


IqS RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


light, since thy knowledge of the ground in this 
region is deficient, as thou sayest.” 

Thou didst mistake my meaning, good Castriani,” 
said Volkmer. “It was to this ragged pass, only, that 
I referred. The highways, and, indeed, some of the 
by-ways, are quite familiar to me. Besides, the 
youth may tarry but a brief time at the place where I 
suspect he has hasted to secrete himself, and prompt- 
ness may be essential to his recapture." 

“ Then if there be the fraction of a chance for 
effecting it, we should be sorry advisers in laboring 
to withhold thee from using it,” said Uhlricht. 

“Faith, so would we,” chimed Castriani. “And 
so thou art commended to take the course thou deem- 
est best. Can we aid thee in any measure ? ” 

“I think not. For I must resort to means with 
other persons who would fail to regard me were I at- 
tended by any one. But, nevertheless, I thank thee 
for thy proffered assistance.” 

“ Then we will to Rosenfeldt and apprise him of 
thy purpose,” replied Castriani, as he started on the 
return. ‘ ‘ Brother Uhlricht, wilt thou convey the 
ball and chain? ” 

Uhlricht acted upon the intimation and moved 
along after the others. 

After they had emerged from the pass, they went 
forward with greater celerity until about half the dis- 
tance between it and the castle had been traversed, 
when Volkmer separated from his companions and 
took a road which led him in a northerly direction. 


CHAPTER XVL 


BACK TO COBLENTZ. 

^ ^ ''T^HRICE welcome, good Rudolph. But for the 
1 sound of your voice, you might have baffled 
my efforts to recognize you." 

Then you rate my disguise as about perfect? " 
Faith, yes. I may say it could scarcely be im- 
proved. Came you by it here in Coblentz? " 

No, I entered Coblentz less than a half hour ago, 
and hastened hither to make good my agreement to 
meet you here at the end of a week from our last 
parting." 

Rudolph had but a minute previous been shown. to 
the same room that Wolfgang Diefenbach and he had 
occupied the afternoon prior to the former’s visit to 
his father’s castle; and following his identification 
by his friend, and an exchange of civilities, the above 
conversation took place. 

“ I was expecting you," said Wolfgang, and have 
to bestow my thanks for your punctuality. Whence 
came you? " 

At the last, from Wiesbaden." 

*‘What! From Wiesbaden?" and Diefenbach 
started back a pace or two, while a surprised look 
mantled his features. 


(199) 


200 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


As certainly as that I am here now,” replied 
Rudolph. 

, ‘ ‘ And your disguise ? ’ ’ 

“Was secured there. It is the conception of a 
friendly tinker by the name of Alstoph,” was 
answered. 

“ Mean you by these statements that you bring an 
ill report from Rosenfeldt castle?” asked Diefen- 
bach, in a quick, low tone. 

“Alas, yes, my very good friend,” said Rudolph, 
sadly. “ There is much to lament, and something 
to be grateful for, in my experience of the past seven 
days.” 

* ‘ Has your father, the count, indeed discarded 
you?” 

“ Nay, I can hardly say so much, and yet such 
will, doubtless, be the result. I have been subjected 
to a severe test in the line of argument and threaten- 
ings, which were about to be supplemented by some- 
thing — I know not what — of much greater severity. 
But Heaven came to my rescue, and, thus far, I have 
escaped the pending ordeal.” 

“ Then there is so much gained,” said Wolfgang, 
quickly. “ I am glad of it. And, now, since you 
have awakened my curiosity, I should be grateful for 
a knowledge of so much of your adventure as you 
feel at liberty to disclose.” 

“ I have little, if anything, to conceal from you, 
good seignior Diefenbach. Your kindly offices thus 
far have won both my regard and confidence.” 

“ Ah, you forget that I have been, and still am. 


BACK TO COB LENTZ. 


201 


your debtor to an extent that justly nullifies your 
self-assumed obligations to me, the reason for which 
I may say I fail to discern. But for your timely dis- 
covery of the villain Loandez at Weert, and the 
prompt information you furnished me with regarding 
his design, I might now have been his prisoner. But 
more of him anon. We shall meet him soon under 
different conditions from those existing at the time of 
our encounter on the cliff. Let me hear your story 
at once, good Rudolph, unless your appetite has the 
first claim upon your attention. In that case I will 
immediately make a demand upon our host for what- 
ever you may desire.” 

Thanks, worthy seignior ; I am not now in need 
of refreshments, as I partook of a bountiful meal 
within the last few hours. And, now, if we are well 
screened from intruders, I will acquaint you with my 
recent movements.” 

Rudolph then detailed the leading incidents con- 
nected with his visit home up to the time of his 
escape from the Jesuits in the pass. 

So, then, indeed, young seignior,” said Diefen- 
bach, interrupting the narrative, **you hasted from 
your guardians without so much as vouchsafing them 
a single godspeed. Marry, considered you not that 
they were intent on your soul’s welfare? ” 

** Nay ; you jest, good friend. But you may be 
assured that I determined upon a better opportunity 
than was then afforded me for expressing gratitude 
for the privilege of separating from them, if not for 
the zeal they exhibited concerning my spiritual 


202 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


interests. My feet scarcely touched ground long 
enough at a time to leave the footprints that might 
indicate the direction of my flight.” 

And Volkmer; saw you him afterwards? ” 

“ Yes. At Wiesbaden, on the second day subse- 
quent.” 

When he aided you still further, I opine,” said 
Wolfgang. 

Truly, he did. It is to him and Alstoph that I 
am indebted for these unseemly garments. But 
bethink you, good seignior, what a contradiction 
that same Volkmer is, with his Benedictine habit, and, 
apparently, Protestant heart.” 

<< Faith, he is but a specimen of a class, as I take 
it with more courage than his compeers, yet holding 
the tenets of Rome with no greater slackness of grasp 
than they,” replied Diefenbach. 

I wish he would openly renounce popery.” 

Nay, friend Rudolph, you should not desire him 
to yield a vantage ground. It may be that he finds 
himself better able to assist Protestantism through his 
duplicity than by strictly honest methods. Consider 
your own case. Where would the sole heir of the 
count Rosenfeldt have been at this minute, had your 
mysterious father Volkmer not dissembled through- 
out?” 

Alas ; undergoing, for a part of the last few days, 
at least, the tortures of St. Marie’s, according to his 
assurance.” 

Which would have terminated, no doubt, in 
your becoming a feast for worms, unless you flung 


BACK TO COB LENTZ. 


203 

yourself back into the arms of ^ Holy Mother 
Church.’ ” 

*‘So much did he intimate, seignior Diefenbach, 
and it is likely, after all, that I am indebted to his 
roguery for my life. But I do not design by that 
acknowledgment to justify his use of deceitful means.” 

A smothered laugh escaped from Wolfgang. 

Why, what a pretty fool are you,” he replied, on 
recovering himself. ‘‘Look you at those garments 
that cling to you with so much affection; that dye 
which has so sadly changed the complexion of your 
fair skin; that hideous scar on your cheek which 
might easily be mistaken for the result of an honor- 
able fray, or for a brigand’s mishap ; and that tangled 
mass of hair, so suggestive of lunacy, and then dis- 
course upon the deceptions of one who has so well 
befriended you. Verily, it is the fox consorting with 
the serpent.” 

Rudolph saw the inconsistency of his words with 
his appearance, and, with Wolfgang, felt somewhat 
amused at his position. As he seemed unprepared, 
or unwilling to respond to this thrust, Wolfgang con- 
tinued by inquiring : 

‘ ‘ Where parted you with the recreant Benedic- 
tine?” 

“ At Alstoph’s shop in Wiesbaden.” 

“ And you are now left to shift for yourself, with- 
out further interference on his part?” queried Die- 
fenbach. 

“ I am bound to him by no special promise,” an- 


204 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


svvered Rudolph, < ^ further than that he is to meet me 
at this inn ere the sun goes down.” 

‘‘What! did you so pledge him?” came from 
Diefenbach in a manner which suggested the thought 
to the young man that he had committed a grave 
blunder, and he quickly replied : 

‘ ‘ Pardon me, good seignior, if in doing this I have 
given you offense. ’ ’ 

“It is not an offense, but a possible indiscretion, 
since you knew not how I had arranged for the dis- 
posal of our time to-day.” 

“ But bethink you, my worthy friend, that I could 
not count upon a subsequent opportunity because I 
had no notion as to when or at what place you might 
deem my services needful in the case of Loandez. 
Besides, I opined that it would accord with your will 
to meet my deliverer, for your views and his own do 
not, I take it, vary, to any great extent, respecting 
the usages of ‘Mother Church’; and, in addition, he 
engaged to call at ray father’s castle and ascertain the 
effect of my escape upon my parents. These con- 
siderations I deemed sufficient to warrant me in 
thrusting him into your presence. But you shall not 
be subjected to the contact if it be adverse to your 
liking, as I can easily confer with him apart.” 

“You expend too many words, noble Rudolph, in 
apology. I fear me that I have grieved you some- 
what. As for the results of Volkmer’s inquiry at the 
castle, I shall desire to learn of them, though I may 
not do so from his lips, since I must be absent from 
the inn during the latter half of the day, and you and 


BACK TO COB LENTZ. 


205 


he may occupy this apartment undisturbed. But you 
will acquaint me with the opinions the count and 
countess may entertain regarding your flight.” 

I will do so, gladly, kind seignior; though 
your presence at our interview would be a pleasure to 
me,” said Rudolph. 

The conversation was now directed to the case of 
Loandez ; and soon after the noon repast, Diefen- 
bach sallied forth to attend to some matters pertain- 
ing thereto. 

Within the next hour, father Volkmer presented 
himself and was ushered into the little room where Ru- 
dolph was awaiting his coming. Though he had been 
separated from him for only a short time, the young 
man gave him a most cordial welcome. This exhibi- 
tion was due, partly, to his eagerness concerning the 
expected news from home. 

God bless thee, my son,” said the monk, placing 
a hand upon the youth’s head. 

‘‘Amen,” responded Rudolph, reverently. “And 
may you also be the recipient of his best benizons, 
holy father.” 

“So mote it be,” came from Volkmer. “Thou 
hast been looking for my advent with some degree of 
anxiety, young seignior, if I mistake not the nature of 
thy reception.” 

“ You speak truly, good father. But the feeling 
was awakened by the character of the information 
you may bestow, and not by any doubt respecting the 
fulfilment of your engagement.” 

“ I trow not ; though truth to tell, it cost me not a 


2 o 6 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


little effort to get well freed from the Jesuitical breth- 
ren, who seemed loth to part company with me.” 

‘‘Remain they still at Rosenfeldt castle, good 
father?” asked Rudolph, evincing some surprise. 

‘ ‘ Nay, I know not if they be yet there. But when 
I departed thence yestermorn, I left them in full glee 
at the count’s sumptuous board.” 

“Marry, father Volkmer, your soul doctors must 
have respect to their bodies, and be happy, if they 
can, as well.” 

“Why, thou art right, son. It is the way of the 
Church as of the world,” replied Volkmer, whose 
efforts at jesting always accorded poorly with his sin- 
gular features, and thin, cracked manner of speaking. 

Rudolph smiled, remained silent a few seconds, 
and then asked : 

“Will it please you, good father, to furnish me, 
presently, with the information which you may deem 
I greatly desire to receive? ” 

“ Yes, faith. Thou shalt not be held in suspense; 
for well convinced am I that such desire lies next to 
thy newly adopted notions. The countess, thy 
mother, can scarcely conceal her pleasure from her 
noble lord, thy father, at thy escape, albeit he is in 
no condition to upbraid her for the satisfaction she 
thus secretly realizes. But thou must not imagine, 
young seignior, that she is one whit less inclined to 
have thee return to the Church.” 

“Nay, father, I- dared not hope that she would 
forego such inclination, though I was somewhat pre- 
pared to learn of her satisfaction at my freedom. But 


BACK TO COB LENTZ. 20/ 

my father, good Volkmer ; know you his mind con- 
cerning me ? ” 

‘‘The count secludes himself, for the most part, 
but hesitates not, when in the presence of his churchly 
advisers, to deprecate thy flight and consequent relief 
from further pressure. Yet am I assured, from a con- 
ference I had with him alone, that he is not grieved 
that thou hast slipped from the net that entangled 
thee. Nevertheless, he still indulges the expectation 
that thou wilt, through some means, be restored to 
thy former faith.” 

“Think you, good father, that he would entrust 
me again to such merciless hands as those from which 
you assisted me to escape ? ’ ’ 

“ I should say not, son, if it were possible for him 
to withhold thee from such an ordeal without com- 
promising his churchly standing. He is, as thou 
knowest, firmly rooted in the faith, and I question 
if the strain to which it has been subjected, in this 
case of thine, has caused it to fluctuate for a single 
moment.” 

‘ ‘ I know my father to be rank in his loyalty to 
popery, worthy Volkmer; yet I cannot but entertain 
the feeling that his adhesion thereto might find a 
limit, and I am not without hope that that limit will 
be reached by some influence, and the bands that 
hold him be rent in twain,” answered Rudolph, with 
a marked degree of cheerfulness in his tone. 

‘ ‘ What sayest thou ? A pretty knave, to be sure, 
is this heretical son of the count Rosenfeldt,” said 
the monk in a menacing way, “ to thus discourse to 


2 o 8 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


one wearing the insignia of holy orders. A truce to 
thy brazonry.” 

‘‘Ah, good father, deem not that you affright me 
by such a reminder. It is too late now to convince 
me that the Church needs no better propping than 
what you furnish it to warrant its future stability. I 
have that to thank you for which, if known, would 
soon render your head fit for crow’s meat.” 

‘ ‘ Nay, you forget that thy story would not be 
credited an inch beyond thy lips, for I hold rank 
among my compeers as one of the most trusted 
devotees of ‘ Holy Mother Church. ’ Look well to 
thine own head, young seignior. I have saved it for 
thee this once, it is true ; but thou mayest be less 
fortunate in another strait of like description.” 

“True, good father,” said Rudolph, heartily. 
“ And, be assured, that my gratitude is only exceeded 
by your kindness. Nor would the intimations you 
have just given deter me from further reposing confi- 
dence in your friendship, even though a cardinal’s 
cap should grace your brow.” 

‘ ‘ A pest art thou. Thy silly gabble stamps me a 
most perfidious traitor to Our Lady,” and Volkmer 
essayed a lowering look, which, however, did not 
deceive his young companion. 

“ It would ill-become me so to charge you, my 
very good friend,” said Rudolph, playfully, “since 
another whom I also highly esteem, accords me 
equal honors with yourself in deceptive arts ; and with 
some show of reason, as I take it, albeit I do not 
compromise my faith thereby.” 


BACK TO COB LENTZ. 


209 


** To whom dost thou refer ? ” 

‘‘To the seignior Wolfgang Diefenbach. Know 
you aught concerning him ? ” 

“ I have some knowledge of his reputation,” re- 
plied Volkmer. “I should scarcely dare trust him 
with matters of serious consequence, if, as some assert 
him to be, he is a bold adventurer, notwithstanding 
he seems to lay some claim to noble blood. Hast 
thou met him recently? ” 

“Ay. This very day, and in the room where we 
now are.” 

“ Sayest thou so? Then mayhap I have escaped 
witnessing a curiosity,” said the monk, evidencing 
some surprise. 

“You, indeed, but scarcely missed him, as he left 
shortly before your advent. But, good father, if it 
will please you to delay your departure hence, you 
may behold this friend of mine — for friend he truly 
is — as I expect his return will not be long delayed.” 

“ Dost mean to-day ? ” 

“Yes. And within the next hour, mayhap.” 

“ Then will I await his coming for so long, albeit I 
have some reason for immediate departure.” 

“I trust your delay will not result in disappoint- 
ment to you, good father,” said Rudolph. “And, 
now, if it please you, I would ask your counsel as to 
the advisability of my making a secret visit home. I 
am greatly desirous of communing with my mother, 
and curious to learn my father’s real disposition to- 
ward me.” 

“ Thou wouldst be unwise, seignior Rudolph, to 

14 


210 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


hazard thy present freedom by such a course, for 
many days to come. Give the count a goodly time 
to consider and well digest the meaning to him of 
this separation. Thou art not yet disinherited ; and, 
unless the Jesuits have more force with him than I 
opine they have, he is not likely, in my view, soon to 
cast thee off.” 

‘‘Your answer pains and pleases me at the same 
time, father Volkmer. I greatly regret being thus 
held aloof from my parents, though glad am I to feel 
that my claims have not been disavowed.” 

Volkmer again assured him that they had not. 
From this their conversation drifted upon the consid- 
eration of Rudolph’s disposal of himself while thus 
deprived of his home. The young man had not 
mapped out any course for the future, and earnestly 
desired the monk to make some suggestion as to what 
it should be. Volkmer, however, refrained from giv- 
ing any definite directions. In this way, the hour, 
during which he had consented to await the arrival of 
Diefenbach, was consumed. He referred to the fact ; 
and after assuring Rudolph that he would soon again 
interview his parents with the intent to aid his cause, 
bade him God-speed, and departed. 


CHAPTER XVIII. 


THE VEHMGERICHTE.* 

I T was early twilight before Diefenbach again en- 
tered the hostelry. Rudolph was quick to make 
him aware of the monk's delay in order to meet him. 
Something like a regret escaped Wolfgang’s lips at 
the announcement, but, evidently deeming it of no 
further importance, he immediately observed : 

‘ * Seignior Rudolph, I have arranged for you to 
accompany me to-night on business of much import- 
ance.” 

* * Mean you such as relates to the culprit Loan- 
dez ? ” 

Verily, yes. But interrogate me no closer re- 
specting it ; and hold yourself in readiness to com- 
ply with every direction I may give pertaining there- 
to. It will be needful that you doff that disguise and 
habit yourself in some correspondence with the attire 
worn by you on the evening of the Spaniard’s cap- 
ture. This should be accomplished within the next 
hour.” 

** I promise you dispatch, my good friend. But I 
am not sure that I shall be able to renew my disguise, 
in all respects, as it now appears.” 

** Exactness will not be absolutely required, I take 

* Or Femgerichte. 


(2II) 


212 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


it,” observed Diefenbach. ‘*We will have ample 
time, to arrange it after our disposal of the night’s 
proceedings.” 

“Shall we first partake of refreshments, good seig- 
nior?” inquired Rudolph. 

“Yes, faith. It is a need which, since we may be 
debarred of our accustomed repose, we cannot well 
dispense with.” 

Ten minutes later, they were discussing their re- 
past, and within the hour named, Rudolph had re- 
stored himself to his natural appearance. It was now 
quite dark ; and, on the young man’s assurance that 
he was ready for further movements, Wolfgang quietly 
led the way to the street. It was a starless, gloomy 
night, and the threatening aspect of the clouds seemed 
to promise a condition still more disagreeable for 
those whose duties required them to be abroad. 

The two went forth into the darkness, and silently 
wended their way through the narrow, tortuous streets 
until Diefenbach halted before a low doorway, m a 
rough stone edifice, and drawing his sword, gave a 
peculiar rap with it upon the door. Rudolph, who, 
of course, stopped at the same instant, instinctively 
cast a sweeping glance over the front of the building, 
as if to assure himself of his whereabouts. But so 
far as he could discern anything through the thick 
gloom, he failed to recognize the place as a familiar 
object. Indeed, the winding course they had pursued 
in the dark, had somewhat confused him, notwith- 
standing his knowledge of the city, and, for some 
distance, he had been at a loss to know just where 


THE VEHMGERICHTE, 


213 


they were. Diefenbach, from the first, had designed 
that this should be so, as he wished to keep him igno- 
rant of the location of the scene that was to follow, 
and, hence, had conducted him through a system of 
narrow, and, comparatively, unfrequented ways. 

After a few moments’ delay, the door swung 
slightly ajar and a portion of a face was dimly out- 
lined at the aperture. Wolfgang said something in a 
very low tone to the person, who thus presented him- 
self, and immediately the door was opened sufficiently 
to admit them, and closed and bolted the moment 
they were beyond it. The porter now led them 
along a wide and extended hallway, which was 
• faintly lighted by two lamps placed at almost the 
opposite extremes of the apartment, and, at the end, 
passed into a much more contracted passage, running 
at right angles to the first. A short distance from the 
entrance to this, was another lamp, perched upon a 
rude bracket. This was appropriated to assist their 
further progress. After they had followed this pas- 
sage many paces, Rudolph noticed that it took a very 
gradual curvilinear course, as if winding around an 
immense circular tower, until, at length an angle was 
reached, on turning which, and advancing a few feet, 
they came to a heavy oaken door. At a signal from 
the porter, which was evidently well understood on 
the other side, this door was thrown open, revealing 
a spacious room scarcely better lighted than was the 
hall into which they first entered. 

At this point, two men, singularly arrayed and ^ 
wearing swords, received the visitors, while the por- 


214 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


ter retired by the way he came, the door being imme- 
diately closed and barred behind him. This done, 
Wolfgang took the persons, into whose presence they 
had thus been ushered, aside from Rudolph, and 
entered with them into a conference of some minutes 
duration. At its close, the young man’s eyes were 
bandaged and he was directed to accompany them, 
subject to Diefenbach’s control, in further move- 
ments. They now crossed to the opposite end of the 
room, which at that portion, failed to afford any vis- 
ible place of egress. A few seconds, however, suf- 
ficed to reveal one, for scarcely had they all taken 
position upon a certain section of the flooring next to 
the solid partition, when the surface beneath them 
began to settle and continued to do so until their 
heads were about on a line with the level they had 
just traversed. A narrow archway through the wall 
which, above, had seemed to forbid further advance- 
ment, was now revealed by the dim light that still 
prevailed. The guards, followed by Wolfgang, lead- 
ing Rudolph, passed this opening and entered a long 
hall about eight feet wide, whose walls, floor and 
ceiling were of stone. On reaching the terminus of 
this, the visitors were placed in charge of two other 
men, accoutred as the guards, when the latter, as the 
porter had done, returned to their post. Diefenbach 
whispered a few words to one of the new custodians, 
when, at a given signal, a large slab of stone, which 
completely covered the end of the hall, swung out- 
wardly from the bottom at an angle equal to the 
descent of a steep flight of stone steps, upon whose 


THE VEHMGERICHTE. 


215 


very edge the party were standing. Down this flight 
— about ten feet in height — Diefenbach conducted 
Rudolph, leaving the two sentinels above. They 
were now in a moderately sized room, lit by a single 
lamp, and furnished with two rough benches and a 
table. 

To suppose that Rudolph felt some degree of ner- 
vousness, under the circumstances, would be reason- 
able. While fearing no harm to his own person, he 
was sure that the course so far pursued was but prefa- 
tory to some dark, and, to say the least, disagreeable 
operations, the like of which he had never seen. 
He, of course, was satisfied that it had to do with the 
disposition to be made of Loandez. Beyond this he 
was utterly in the dark, as he had been since Wolf- 
gang and himself left the inn. His friend had so 
abruptly smothered what inquiry he might have made 
touching the modus operandi with the Spaniard as to 
leave him utterly unprepared for any revelation that 
might come. 

After leading him to one of the benches mentioned, 
and informing him that he was to be left alone for a 
time, Wolfgang moved to the only door the apart- 
ment contained, aside from the one by which they 
had just entered, and gave five raps, slowly and at 
regular intervals, with his clenched fist. The door 
immediately swung open, and he disappeared in dark- 
ness. Scarcely had he passed out, when a person, 
with his face partially masked, entered the apartment, 
and approaching Rudolph, removed the bandage 
from his eyes, and after cautioning him to speak only 


2 i 6 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


when addressed, withdrew, closing the door behind 
him. 

In order to a proper understanding of what soon 
followed, a brief sketch of one of the most formidable 
and influential organizations noticed in history, needs 
to be given here. It was known as the Vehmgerichtey 
a word derived, it seems, from the old German Vetne, 
punishment, and Gericht^ court of justice. Charle- 
magne is believed by some, to have founded this 
tribunal ; but as there were many points of similarity 
between it and the free courts of justice of the ancient 
Teutons, the probability is that it was a relic or an 
outgrowth of their methods of litigation. However 
this may be, it is evident that it had a protracted exist- 
ence, flourishing, in modified forms, which were 
introduced from time to time, from the eleventh 
century to the early part of the nineteenth, though, it 
is asserted that the last real Vehmgerichte took place 
during the latter half of the sixteenth century, and 
that all subsequent tribunals of like character were 
mere resemblances, using it, in some sort, as a basis 
for their operation. 

The court of the Vehmgerichte was, for the most 
part, confined, in its actions, to Westphalia, or that 
portion of Germany lying between the Rhine and the 
Weser, and known as the red land, though during the 
fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, its jurisdiction 
extended over nearly the entire German realm. 

Though well adapted, in many regards, to the needs 
of the times, the Vehmgerichte was of a nature calcu- 
lated to run to extremes in its operations, and use its 


THE VEHMGERICHTE, 


217 


tremendous power in a way not warranted by the 
requirements of justice and right. Hence, it is not 
strange that under cover of its authority many schemes 
for revenge, incited by purely personal quarrels, should 
have been originated and carried out. Indeed, it 
seems to have become so potent as a penal servitor ; 
so exacting in its demands ; and so regardless of the 
classes and conditions of society, that no offender 
against it as an organized body, or who might be 
summoned to answer before it for alleged committal 
of crime, could hope for mercy, if denounced as 
guilty, or escape from the inflictions of its punish- 
ments, just or unjust, as the case might be. No posi- 
tion, however exalted ; no wealth, however vast ; no 
influence, however extended could shield the possessor 
thereof against its inquisitions and mandates. It was 
alike dominant over ruler and subject. To assail it in 
any way was not only to court its displeasure, but to 
jeopardize liberty, property and life. Its agents were, 
apparently, everywhere, and as faithful to their oaths 
as they seemed to be ubiquitous. Charles of Bur- 
gundy, known in history as Charles the Bold, and 
regarded as the most powerful sovereign in Europe at 
that time; is said to have been a bitter enemy of the 
organization, and must, therefore, have come under its 
ban. Sir Walter Scott, in one of his stories, refers the 
death of Charles to its instigation. So tremendous 
and awe-inspiring was the influence of this institution 
that very many, though dreading and hating it, con- 
nected themselves therewith, in order to secure what- 
ever advantage such association might guarantee. 


2i8 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


The members of the Feme were called JVtssende, 
* the knowing one’s, or the initiated.' It was neces- 
sary that they should be born in wedlock, be of the 
Christian religion, lead a blameless life, and bind 
themselves by a tremendous oath to support the holy 
Feme, and to conceal it from wife and child, father 
and mother, sister and brother, fire and wind, from 
all that the sun shines on and the rain wets, and from 
all that is between heaven and earth.”* As regards 
the above noted exactions respecting the character of 
the members, there is good grounds for believing that, 
latterly, they were not so strenuously insisted upon. 
Certainly, the uses to which the institution degener- 
ated, could not be regarded as righteous, even in that 
age, by those who “ led a blameless life.” 

Another clause of the oath taken by the initiated 
declares that “ he will *■ say forth’ to the tribunal all 
crimes or offences which fall beneath the secret ban 
of the Emperor (who is president), which he knows 
to be true or which he has heard from trustworthy 
report ; and that he will not forbear to do so, for love 
nor for loathing, for gold nor for silver nor precious 
stones 

“If he discloses the secrets of the Court, he is to 
expect that he will be suddenly seized by the ministers 
of vengeance. His eyes are bound, he is cast down 
on the soil, his tongue is torn out through the back of 
his neck — and he is then to be hanged seven times 
higher than any other criminal. Whether restrained 
by fears of punishment, or by the stronger ties of 

* Chamber’s Encyclopedia, Art. Femgerichte. 


THE VEHMGERICHTE. 2 1 9 

mystery, no instance was ever known of any violation 
of the secrets of the tribunal.”* 

The courts of this institution were of two kinds. 
One was always held in the open air and in the day 
time. But though this was the case, no person not a 
member thereof or directly interested therein was per- 
mitted to be present at its proceedings without forfeit- 
ing his life. This court — unless during the early exist- 
ence of the institution — was for the trial of civil 
suits. The second kind referred to was secret in all 
respects, and convened in any building suited to its 
requirements. It was about impossible for any one 
interdicted to gain access to its conclaves. Its actions 
were confined to cases of a criminal nature, and the 
punishment inflicted, in case of conviction, was, as a 
rule, that of death. 

While there is no doubt that the Vehmgerichte, as a 
formal and recognized institution, ceased to exist 
some time during the latter portion of the fifteenth 
century, it is known, that close resemblances to its 
former operations were maintained in some of the 
communities where it had hitherto been a dominant 
power, during a large part of the sixteenth century. 
It is, therefore, quite safe to assume that at the date of 
this story, secret associations, of which the one de- 
scribed in the next chapter may be regarded as a repre- 
sentative, were kept alive for the purpose of facilitating 
proceedings against alleged culprits and ensuring retri- 
bution. During the period under consideration, the ex- 
citement associated with the Reformation was at white 


* Palgrave’s Rise and Progress of the English Commonwealth. 


220 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


heat, so to speak. That these self-constituted and 
illegal courts subserved the ends of justice, in most of 
the Oases with which they dealt, quite as well as the 
recognized tribunals, may be conceded. Certain was 
it that Protestants arraigned before tribunals where 
Catholic influence predominated, could scarcely hope 
to maintain their rights or go forth unscathed. 

Before one of the illicit courts named, Diefenbach 
had brought the case of Loandez, the Spaniard. 
Diefenbach himself was a principal officer of the in- 
stitution. Though scarcely more than a year had 
elapsed since his initiation therein, he already held, if 
not the highest place, a prominent position, and com- 
manded an influence equal to any of his compeers. 
Just who he was, or whence he came, none of the 
latter seemed able to comprehend. But notwithstand- 
ing the fact that this bit of mystery enveloped him, 
he was held in high esteem by them all, both for his 
liberality, courage and wisdom, and the deep interest 
he evinced in the institution itself. This interest was 
entirely unfeigned on his part. The principal reason 
for it was to be found in the object for which the 
tribunal was instituted. It was independent of re- 
ligious influence of any kind. The Vehmgerichte, 
through nearly or quite all its history, was confessedly 
the servant of the Catholic Church. It punished 
heresy as promptly as the most flagrant crimes in the 
the list. That it was, therefore, an unsafe arbiter in 
matters wherein an anti-papist was involved, was 
not to be questioned for a moment. This consid- 
eration had given rise to the organization of which 


THE VEHMGERICHTE, 


221 


Diefenbach was a member. His religious status, or 
the absence of one, has already been announced ; and 
the readiness with which he allied himself to these 
secret dispensers of justice, indicated his thorough 
sympathy therewith. 


CHAPTER XVni. 


THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ. 

T he Veiled Court of Coblentz, as the initiated 
termed it, was convened only at the call of its 
president. This name was an apt one. It was death to 
any member thereof to betray its slightest secret, or 
even intimate its existence. Nevertheless, the fact that 
there was a mysterious tribunal very similar in its 
workings to the once dreaded Vehmgerichte, was not 
unknown to many of the denizens of Coblentz and its 
vicinity ; though where it assembled and who consti- 
tuted it, were matters of which they were utterly 
ignorant. What knowledge had reached the outer 
world concerning it had been conveyed by those who, 
as witnesses on behalf of friends arraigned before it, 
had, necessarily, been admitted to its nocturnal sit- 
tings. The utmost caution, however, was exercised 
in conducting them thither. Their eyes were, as a 
rule, carefully bandaged — as also were those of the 
accused — before they were admitted to the section of 
the city in which it was held. Their testimony was 
also given under like conditions, though they were 
permitted to look upon both the plaintiff and defend- 
ant in an anteroom previous to the trial, but under 
such a terrible obligation as to secrecy that they went 
forth with nothing to communicate save the fact that 
( 222 ) 


THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ. 223 

such a tribunal existed and they had appeared before 
it. The same caution exercised in their conduct 
thither was observed on their departure. In the case 
of Loandez, as he was without a single witness in his 
favor, such care was, of course, not required. He 
stood alone. His confession, were he disposed to 
make one, must necessarily strengthen the declaration 
of his accuser, which would be tantamount to his 
signing his own death warrant. 

During the week he had been held in custody, the 
Spaniard had, as may well be supposed, thought 
deeply upon his situation. What disposition would 
be made of his case, he was at a loss to conjecture. 
He was not aware of the real character of the man 
with whom he had to deal. Nor did he suspect that 
such a court, as above described, was to pass judg- 
ment upon his operations against Diefenbach, much 
less that the latter was himself a leading spirit of the 
institution and thoroughly informed concerning the 
doom that awaited him. 

The judgment hall of the Veiled Court was a 
spacious apartment, shrouded on every side by hang- 
ings and decorations of the most sombre character : 
indeed all its appointments were in strict harmony 
with the uses to which it was put as a stern and 
secret court of justice. 

It was ten o’clock on the night set apart for 
the trial of Loandez. Lamps attached to massive 
candelabra shot forth their tongues of red flame, 
the glare of which on hangings and ceiling 
tended to increase the solemn and weird aspect of 


224 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

the place, and afforded all the light it contained. 
The president, or chief tribune, occupied a standing 
position immediately in front of his chair, while six 
sub-tribunes were similarly disposed before as many re- 
maining chairs on an elevated platform. These were 
all attired in gowns of jet black, which depended from 
the shoulders and reached to the feet, and wore skull 
caps of the same hue. The only points distinguish- 
ing the president from his associates were evenly 
balanced scales worked in white on the breast of his 
robe, and a light, highly polished and ornamented 
sword which he held in his right hand. In front of 
him and just outside of a semi-circular railing, two 
marshals, arrayed in scarlet, with metallic helmets and 
russet boots whose tops reached above the knees, stood 
awaiting his commands. They both carried drawn 
swords with the points upward, while at the waist of 
each, the gleaming hilt of a poniard was disclosed. 
A few feet behind them the clerk stood erect at his 
post, ready, at a signal from the chief tribune, to an- 
nounce the opening of the court. 

Thus it will be seen that the appearance of this 
place was calculated to awaken feelings of deep se- 
riousness even in one who had nothing to fear from 
what transpired therein. 

The chief tribune gave a sweeping glance at his 
associates which was instantly followed by a quick 
movement that brought his sword to a vertical posi- 
tion in front of him, the hilt at his waist and the 
point a score of inches above his head. It was the 


THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ. 22$ 


signal awaited by the clerk who immediately, in deep 
measured tones responded : 

** The solemn conclave of the Veiled Court waits 
to dispense justice to the right and to the wrong ! ” 
“Let the veils be drawn,” in like manner came 
from the chief tribune. 

As if by magic, each produced a black veil about 
eight inches in length. This was adjusted to a cord 
with loops at either end, so that it could be secured 
to the ears in a way that brought the upper edge 
across the face just below the eyes, allowing it to 
reach to the upper portion of the breast. It extended 
slightly beyond the eyes on either side and contained 
an aperture sufficiently large for the purposes of breath- 
ing and speaking without obstruction. A few sec- 
onds sufficed to place these masks in position. This 
done, the chief tribune inquired : 

“ Is the Veiled Court prepared for duty ? ” 

A low bow on the part of each one was the re- 
sponse. Then the tribune continued as follows : 

« Brothers, 

Whatever here we do and see, 

From strangers must well shielded be. 

Nor tongue nor eye nor sign must tell 
The secrets deep that with us dwell. 

Earth, sky, or air must never show 
To those without the things we know. 

’ Gainst friend and kin, though chief and best, 

Each locks these treasures of his breast. 

Who that breaks faith with this, his vow. 

Must to the Veiled Court’s vengeance bow : 


15 


226 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 

Nor bribe nor threat can stay his breath 
From yielding to the stroke of death. 

Brothers, speak I well or ill ; 

Lives our dread oath within us still ? 

If so, lift each his good right hand, 

As upward points this gleaming brand ! ” 

The tribune’s sword shot upward at the last word, 
and instantly every right hand in the hall was ele- 
vated, and remained so while the tribune said : 

« So may true Justice shield the right 
And punish wrong, as here we plight 
To each and her our faith this night. 

Brothers, our seats we now assume. 

The one accused to save or doom. 

As shall be meet, when doth appear 
The proofs that shall condemn or clear.” 

The tribunes and clerk now seated themselves, 
while the marshals remained standing. A brief pause 
followed, at the end of which the chief said : 

“ Marshals, you will forthwith escort hither the 
retainers of our judicial circle ; the accuser ; the 
accused, with eyes well bandaged; and the select 
guard of the Veiled Court. Admit no one to this 
chamber who wears not the emblematic veil.’* 

The marshals bowed and moved to the extreme end 
of the apartment at the right hand of the tribunes, 
when they disappeared through a wide doorway so 
ingeniously arranged that one ignorant of its presence 
would fail to detect it. In about two minutes, they 
reappeared, followed immediately by the retainers, 
sixteen in number, moving four abreast, the first two 


THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ. 22/ 

ranks sufficiently separated from the last two to per- 
mit Diefenbach to walk between them. After these 
came a guard of twenty similarly disposed, with the 
prisoner Loandez in their midst. 

With slow, measured steps, the procession moved 
toward the tribunal bar. On reaching it, the retain- 
ers left Diefenbach standing directly in front of the 
chief, whilq they themselves, filed through the open- 
ing in the semi-circular rail, and in solemn order, 
moved to the benches in front of the elevation and 
sat down. The head marshal now spoke as follows ; 

‘ ‘ Most honorable and worthy tribune, before you 
stands seignior Wolfgang Diefenbach, who appeareth 
at this solemn court bringing grave accusation 
against one senor Loandez, a loyal subject of Spain, 
now here present, and he humbly craves permission 
to be heard at such time as will comport with the 
convenience of the Veiled Court.” 

The marshals will conduct the prisoner to the 
enclosure provided, and arrange the guard,” respond- 
ed the chief tribune. 

The marshals then placed themselves one on either 
side of Loandez and ushered him to the place referred 
to, and afterwards arranged the guard so as to form 
two lines across the chamber, one to the right and 
the other to the left of the main enclosure. Mean- 
while, Diefenbach remained standing in front of the 
chief. 

*^ls the Veiled Court prepared to receive the 
accusation of seignior Diefenbach against sefior 


228 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Loandez?” inquired the chief tribune, with a sweep- 
ing glance at his associates. 

Let him speak ! ” came the response from either 

side. 

Seignior Diefenbach,” resumed the chief, address- 
ing the plaintiff, 

Thy purpose here thou mayest declare ; 

But it must be in words most fair. 

For thou must know thy life will be 
The price if thou deal treacherously. 

Truth, only truth must here be given, 

Words that can bear the light of heaven. 

Nor malice nor revenge must speak 
’Gainst him whom to accuse you seek. 

Justice alone must be the aim 

That prompts thee here redress to claim. 

If to our mandate thou canst bow, 

The Veiled Court waits to hear thee, now.” 

To this mandatory recital, Wolfgang replied as 
follows : 

Most solemn and impartial tribunes of the Veiled 
Court of Coblentz, well aware am I that the inflexible 
principles of truth and justice are the controllers of 
your inquisitions and judgments in every case sub- 
mitted to your wisdom and discretion. Nor am I 
less assured that it behooves him who appeareth here 
as an accuser, to be also truthful and just. Possessing 
this knowledge, came I hither craving audience where- 
by I may be permitted to show forth the nature of a 
crime recognized by your veiled circle as most foul 
and reprehensible. It adheres to the prisoner, senor 


THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ. 229 


Loandez, of Antwerp, a subject loyal of his most 
Catholic majesty, Philip 11. , of Spain. Of this person 
do I, Wolfgang Diefenbach, a true and recognized 
initiate of this institution, aver and affirm that he did, 
for the consideration of reward bestowed or promised, 
enter into conspiracy with one baron Schwarzberg, 
a German noble now resident at or near Antwerp, 
in the Netherland province of Brabant, for the pur- 
pose of forcibly depriving me of life either by his 
own hands or by those of an agent of the Roman 
Catholic Church. I further affirm that he did pursue 
me to Weert, thence to Cologne, and thence to the 
place where he was made prisoner; that he was 
leagued with and accompanied by two countrymen 
of his who acted as his assistants ; that he did accost 
and assault me and a youth with whom I was asso- 
ciated, and forced us to combat for our liberty or our 
lives ; that one of his accomplices was slain by my 
sword, and the other accidentally killed ; that I after- 
wards disarmed and captured the prisoner Loandez ; 
and that this conflict and capture took place near the 
river Rhine, on the red soil of Westphalia, and 
between Cologne and Coblentz. This, worthy tribunes, 
is the accusation I make ; and as it is shown to be true 
or false, so let me deserve and receive.” 

Diefenbach ceased speaking and bowed his head. 

Senor Loandez,” said the chief, thou hast 
heard the accusation brought against thee. Didst 
thou mark well its import and seriousness? ” 

I did,” came from the prisoner in a voice that 
betrayed not the least trepidation or hesitancy. 


230 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


How sayest thou; art thou truly represented 
therein ? ’ ’ 

First must I ask/’ responded Loandez, if this 
be a righteous court, legally constituted by the State.” 

Nay, thou equivocatest,” said the chief tribune. 
But thou shalt be answered. It is a court capable 
of maintaining its own jurisdiction,, and metes out 
justice with an impartial hand, though free from the 
control of recognized sovereignty.” 

Then do I question its right to sit in judgment, 
and appeal to a righteous tribunal,” was replied. 

‘^Thy words are breath wasted, senor Loandez. 
As thou goest hence, thou goest with sealed lips and 
with thy heart in thy hands. Mistake not thy 
position and be content to know that here the fullest 
proof of innocence thou canst bring will be well 
received and weighed to thy credit.” 

Deem you it a safe procedure to thus arraign a 
loyal subject of the mightiest potentate of the earth, 
and a true son of the Church? ” 

The calm boldness of the prisoner was entirely 
unlooked for by any one present. Under other cir- 
cumstances, his temerity would have been applauded. 
As it was, the hardihood he displayed, so at variance 
with the customary spirit of most of those who were 
presented there for trial, was regarded as menacing, 
and tended rather to awaken indignation than pro- 
voke admiration. 

Why pratest thou of the bloody and bigoted 
Philip ; or seekest to screen thyself behind the empty 
dogmas of the Church ? As for thy king, know that 


THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ. 23 1 

his best efforts will fail to betray this noble and 
honorable court, or any member thereof, provided 
thou so lightly esteemest thy life, in the event of thy 
acquittal here, as to acquaint him with the meagre 
knowledge thou mayest glean from our proceedings. 
Concerning thy Church, its mandates reach not so 
far as this circle. We convene outside the limits of 
all creeds ; and he will be entitled to our respect, be 
he Catholic or Protestant, who can burrow his way to 
the secrets buried here. Thou art answered. Further 
evasion of our efforts to deal justly will bode thee ill.” 

These utterances of the chief tribune had some- 
thing of their designed effect upon Loandez. For the 
first time, the deep seriousness of his situation dawned 
upon him. He now began to regard his case as one 
involved in extreme danger. Hitherto he had failed 
to get a proper conception of the nature of the tribu- 
nal before which he was to appear. All his inquiries 
concerning it had met with most unsatisfactory returns. 

But Loandez was no coward. And, notwithstand- 
ing his plight, he determined to face the issue with- 
out becoming intimidated by threats or intimations 
of the severest penalty they could inflict, though 
prudently concluding to contend no farther against 
their right of jurisdiction. 

Prisoner, art thou prepared to answer the ques- 
tion already propounded by the court? ” asked the 
chief, after a brief hesitation. 

** I am,” replied Loandez. 

** Then, what sayest thou in thineownbehalf ? ” 


232 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


That my duty both to my Church and sovereign 
urged me to seek the arrest of my accuser.” 

Wast thou not also moved thereto by expectation 
of reward ? ’ 

I expected to receive pay for the time and effort 
necessary to execute the purpose.” 

From whom?” 

“ The baron Scbwarzberg.” 

And from the Church also? ” 

I deem that he acted in behalf of the Church.” 

^‘Hadst thou no inkling that his design was to 
remove an obstacle from his own path ? ” 

Verily, he named senor Diefenbach as a dan- 
gerous heretic, and claimed it to be the duty of all 
good Catholics to assist in depriving him of the power 
to injure the Church.” 

*‘By depriving him of his life?” said the chief, 
inquiringly. 

“ Nay, I know not what results might have been.” 

<‘Thou didst follow him, with two attendants, to 
Weert and thence to Cologne, didst thou not?” 

“ I did. But only to effect his capture.” 

At the risk of procuring his death ? ” 

‘‘Such a result entered not into my expectation,” 
replied Loandez, after a moment’s hesitancy. He 
scarcely knew just how to answer. 

“Wouldst thou have foregone thy purpose to cap- 
ture him, rather than take his life ? ” 

“ I know not what circumstances might have influ- 
enced me. Such was not my design at the onset.” 
Again Loandez felt himself to be in a strait. 


THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ. 233 


‘‘Where didst thou come in contact with seignior 
Diefenbach and his companion,” pursued the chief 
tribune. 

“About three hours’ fair riding this side of 
Cologne.” 

“ On the east bank of the river, as thy accuser has 
averred?” 

“ The same,” replied the Spaniard. 

The chief then proceeded to closely question him 
concerning the conflict. The answers elicited were, 
in the main, truthful, though he failed to reveal the 
fact that at one time he had aimed a deadly stroke at 
Diefenbach, which only the strength and skill of the 
latter rendered ineffective. 

“Seignior Diefenbach, canst thou produce aught 
in proof of thy accusation?” inquired the chief tri- 
bune, on concluding his examination of Loandez. 

‘ ‘ I can presently introduce the youth who was my 
traveling companion from Weert to Coblentz, if the 
most worthy tribune so command.” 

“ Let it be so. We will receive him forthwith.” 

“ If the court will excuse me for a brief space and 
permit me the accompaniment of a guard, I will pre- 
sent the witness.” 

Two of the guards were directed to attend Wolf- 
gang, who, with them, retired from the chamber by 
the door through which the procession, with the 
prisoner, had entered. They soon returned con- 
ducting Rudolph, who walked, with eyes bandaged, 
between the guard, Wolfgang leading the way. On 
being presented to the court, Rudolph took the cus- 


234 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 

tomary oath of witnesses which pledged them to 
secrecy as to what they might learn, and truthfulness 
of statement in giving evidence. 

After having satisfied the court that he had clearly 
identified the prisoner since entering the building, he 
was instructed to communicate what knowledge he 
possessed touching the matters embraced in the accu- 
sation, of which he was duly informed. 

Rudolph’s testimony consisted in a review of the 
conversation he overheard in the inn at Weert between 
Loandez and his accomplices, and the scene of the 
conflict on the height. Following his connected 
statements, he was closely examined in detail by 
both the chief tribune a‘nd his associates. The chief 
then informed the prisoner that he was privileged to 
ask the witness any questions touching the case he 
might deem proper and expedient. The Spaniard 
embraced the opportunity, though the replies elicited 
afforded him little or no advantage. 

Wolfgang himself now assumed the role of witness, 
and was likewise subjected to a thorough examina- 
tion. His responses were amplifications of the points 
named in the accusation, with, in addition, some 
well-guarded hints concerning the real animus of 
Schwarzberg in seeking to destroy him. He also was 
made subject to any question Loandez might desire to 
ask. The latter used the privilege freely. He 
probed Wolfgang concerning nearly every one of his 
statements, hoping thereby to entangle him and give 
his assertions the semblance of perjury. But his 
accuser was on the alert, knowing full well, as he did, 


THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ, 235 


that his connection with the institution did not weigh 
a feather, in so far as to shield him against the effect 
of prevarication or inconsistency was concerned. 
Loandez’s efforts failed to accomplish his design. 
As a last opportunity, he was permitted to address 
the court in his own behalf. Believing it to be a 
struggle for life, he employed whatever power of 
appeal he possessed to justify the course he had taken. 
At the conclusion of his speech, the chief tribune 
inquired if Wolfgang had anything further as evi- 
dence or plea to advance. Being answered in the 
negative, he arose and directed the guard to conduct 
the accuser, accused, and witness from the chamber, 
and to allow no one ingress thereto unless summoned 
by the court. 

The tribunes and retainers being left alone, the 
chief, elevating his sword in a vertical position, said: 

“ Yet once again we here renew 
Our solemn oaths each other to. 

Favor nor fear, nor love nor hate, 

Can guide us in deciding fate. 

To justice only do we yield, 

And use it both as sword and shield : 

The first, for criminals elect ; 

The last the guiltless to protect. 

And may that sword our life blood drink, 

If here we falsely act or think.” 

The chief, with sword still elevated, then con- 
tinued : 

Noble tribunes and worthy retainers, have we 
well and faithfully heeded and noted each item of 


236 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

accusation and testimony this night presented for our 
consideration so as clearly to recognize duty and pro- 
nounce judgment ? If so, let the signal be given.” 

This was responded to by each one raising his right 
hand. 

‘ ‘ How say you ; has it been proven beyond doubt 
that the accused by a wilful course of action pro- 
moted and enforced a strife which procured the 
demise of two persons, and during which he sought 
to take the life of his present accuser, seignior Wolf- 
gang Diefenbach ? Let the tribunes first answer by 
rising.” 

In order to a clear conviction which involved the 
death penalty, this court required the unanimous ver- 
dict of the bench of tribunes before seeking the judg- 
ment of the retainers. Until the former could agree, 
the question could not pass to the latter, or lower 
bench. Nor could the death penalty be pronounced 
without the full concurrence of both. 

The request of the chief was instantly complied 
with by the rising of each of the associates. These 
remained standing pending the action of the retainers, 
to whom the question was at once submitted, and 
who, in like manner, gave a general response. 

^*Doth the prisoner merit death?” inquired the 
chief. 

** He does ! he does ! ” came the unanimous verdict. 

** Shall he receive it at the hands of the Veiled 
Court of Coblentz?” 

So let it be ! ” was replied in the same manner as 
before. 


THE VEILED COURT OF COBLENTZ. 237 


“ Then must he die by whom the court shall choose, 

And such, the deed to do may not refuse. 

His fall must be before the coming day, 

For sun must shine not on his living clay. 

Thus with these duties done, our conclave ends. 

And part we as we met, unperjured friends.” 

In a very short time after the announcement of the 
adjournment, the chamber was dark and silent, a con- 
dition typical of the fate that was so soon to befall 
the condemned. 

The execution of the penalty devolved upon two 
persons appointed by the chief. These were privi- 
leged to select any means they chose for completing 
their work, but it must be finished before the rising 
of the sun. 

Loandez was drowned in the river Rhine. 


CHAPTER XIX. 


THE RECLUSE OF THE BRQCKEN. 

L ate in the forenoon following the events just 
recorded, Wolfgang and Rudolph sat discussing 
a tardy breakfast at their temporary abode in Coblentz. 
They were quite alone, having ordered the meal to 
be served in their own apartment. Since leaving the 
precincts of the Veiled Court, not a word had passed 
between them respecting it. Rudolph had learned 
enough during that single visit to be assured that it 
was not safe for him to ask, nor for his friend to an- 
swer any questions touching its location, character, 
or composition. He was not aware, nor did he even 
suspect, that Diefenbach was one of its leading spir- 
its. Nevertheless, the fact that , he had been enabled 
to bring the Spaniard before it, evidenced clearly 
enough to his mind that he was pretty well conver- 
sant with its workings, and able to display much more 
knowledge of it than he himself had obtained in his 
role as witness. To say that his curiosity was not 
excited concerning the institution, would be to mis- 
represent him. Indeed, he was so deeply engross- 
ed by the emotion that he said very little besides 
answering several desultory question put by Wolf- 
gang regarding the dishes at their disposal. The 
latter was quite confident that he knew the cause of 
(238) 


THE RECLUSE OF THE BROCKEN. 239 

this reticence, and was willing that the young seignior 
should digest his surmisings, in connection with his 
meal, to his heart’s content. But a subject so absorb- 
ing is likely to ventilate itself, and Rudolph felt 
bound to make some allusion to his singular experi- 
ence of the preceding night, without disregarding 
any restraint to which either of them had become 
subject. 

Seignior Diefenbach,” he at length said, “if 
you can communicate anything respecting the adven- 
ture from which we have scarcely more than emerged, 
without violating your conscience or your vows, you 
may be sure of finding an interested listener in 
me.” 

Diefenbach, not surprised at the overture, was fully 
prepared with a reply. 

“ There is nothing to communicate, my very good 
friend, save the assurance that you need fear no 
further encounter with senor Loandez in this world.” 

“ Then he is dead ? ” queried Rudolph. 

“ You will find my answer in the one just given,” 
said Wolfgang, promptly. 

It being evident from these replies that efforts to 
glean in a field so well guarded would prove abortive, 
Rudolph concluded to attempt nothing further in that 
direction. He must be content with the meagre stock of 
information his own contact with the mysterious tribu- 
nal had enabled him to secure. But he seemed unable to 
divest his mind of the thoughts which that contact 
had awakened. After another somewhat lengthy 
silence, however, Wolfgang came to his assistance by 


240 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


introducing a topic which he knew would engross his 
companion’s attention to a much greater extent than 
the one in which, for the time being, he was inter- 
ested. 

<< You will start on your return to Antwerp shortly, 
I doubt not, seignior Rudolph ? ” he said in a ques- 
tioning way. 

** Verily, I have decided upon no specific time, 
friend Diefenbach,” was answered somewhat ab- 
sently. 

Say you so ? ” came from Wolfgang, with appar- 
ent surprise. I had supposed you to be in the con- 
dition of a caged eagle, ready to fly at the first oppor- 
tunity. Surely you have not forgotten the request I 
bore to you from the fair Christina.” 

Faith, not I,” replied the young man, thoroughly 
diverted by the allusion from the unsatisfactory specu- 
lations that had held him. “ But the adventures which 
have absorbed my time and attention since quitting 
Antwerp, have prevented me from making complete 
arrangements for my return.” 

‘‘You have but little time, and, as I take it, no 
cause for delay in setting forth,” said Diefenbach. 

“ There are four days yet before me. And I have 
something better to speed my return than the jade 
with which a portion of my journey thence was 
accomplished.” 

“ Then your steed is a fleet one ? ” 

“He would leave the gale behind him, worthy 
friend ; and, I could almost say, weary his own 
shadow in the flight.” 


THE RECLUSE OF THE BROCKEN. 24 1 


** But it would be cruel in you to tarry until the 
latest possible moment and then urge him to his 
utmost tension.” 

‘‘Nay, good seignior, I propose to do no such 
thing. Yet can I spare a few hours more, if need be, 
as I am not without some slight hope that my worthy 
friend, the monk, may return me additional informa- 
tion respecting my father’s disposition toward me, 
before I depart.” 

“ What ! Consider you him lightning that he should 
speed to Rosenfeldt castle and back since yester-e’en ? 
Verily, your desire leaves your reason a wonderful 
stretch behind.” 

“ Think you it would be impossible for him to 
report here ere the day closes, worthy Diefenbach ? ” 

“ Faith, no ; if he were divine in nature as well as 
in title. But, look you, these soul doctors have 
stomachs which need to be fed, and bodies which, 
despite the devoted spirits that inhabit them, must 
employ some time for recuperation and repose.” 

‘ ‘ Then you deem it certain that I must depart before 
he returns ? How shall I arrange for receiving the 
information he n\ay have to bestow? ” 

“ That is not a difficult matter to provide for, seig- 
nior Rudolph. Leave a sealed communication for 
him with our host, in which you may state where he 
can see you, or where a missive from him will reach 
your hand. It may be that, as he is baron Schwarz- 
berg’s father confessor, he will not long delay a 
journey to Antwerp, when you can quiz him to your 
hearts’ content.” 

16 


242 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Thanks for your kind suggestion, my worthy 
friend. I will follow it fully. Since we first met, less 
than a fortnight ago, you have proved yourself an apt 
adviser, and my obligations to you for favors increase 
with each succeeding day.” 

‘‘ Nay, young seignior, you appraise my trifling acts 
much beyond their value. It would ill become me not 
to bestow some encouragement and comfort upon one 
to whom the fates have been so sparing of their 
benisons. But enough of that. When will you 
depart? ” 

‘‘As soon as I have prepared a missive for Volkmer 
and donned my disguise, if such haste meet your 
approval,” said Rudolph, who had now finished his 
repast. 

‘ ‘ Do not include my pleasure in your estimate, as I 
shall leave Coblentz behind me ere the shadows turn 
toward the east,” replied Wolfgang. 

“Whither will you? if I may express so much 
curiosity.” 

“ Faith, as far as the Hartz mountains, it maybe.” 

“ It is something of a journey thither, good Diefen- 
bach, and indicates that I may not soon again see 
you,” said Rudolph, with a regretful look. 

“Verily, I know not when you may. Circum- 
stances, which I cannot now clearly foresee will govern 
my movements, though I hope to enter Antwerp within 
the next two weeks.” 

“ Right glad am I to hear you say so,” came from 
Rudolph, with animation. “And I will agree, so far 
as I can control my own actions, to greet your coming 


THE RECLUSE OF THE BROCKEN. 243 


at the hostelry where we last saw our mutual friend, 
the prince of Orange.” 

‘‘So let it be,” replied Wolfgang. “I shall look 
for you there, and forgive you if you do not appear ; 
for I mistrust that the lady Christina may demand 
your attention in another direction.” 

“It is possible, though I shall do my best to meet 
the engagement, I warrant you.” 

Less than two hours from that time, Rudolph was 
dashing down the west bank of the Rhine toward 
Cologne. • Soon after his departure, Diefenbach also 
left the city by crossing the river, when he took a 
northeasterly course in the direction of Gottingen. 

Three days and a half subsequent to this separa- 
tion, a horseman rode leisurely along the southern 
slope of the Brocken, the highest peak of the Hartz 
mountains. It ^was the hour of sunset, and he and 
his steed were directly within the rays of the sinking 
orb. Diefenbach — for it was he — was so absorbed by 
his meditations that he scarcely heeded the objects 
that surrounded him, save to bestow an occasional 
glance ahead to note the course he desired to pursue. 
His path was a gradually ascending one at this stage 
of his journey, and at the end of a few minutes led 
him to the edge of a cliff some fifty feet in height. 
This fact served to break the spell of his reverie, 
whatever its nature, and caused him to take a more 
extended survey of his position. But he had hardly 
yielded himself to this duty, or impulse — whichever 
term is most befitting — when a scene met his gaze, 
the like of which he had never before witnessed. 


244 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 

Directly before him, though at what distance he was 
unable to comprehend, there appeared the distinct 
form of a steed and his rider in such colossal propor- 
tions and of such a shadowy character that it appeared 
more like a huge cloud of uniform, though somewhat 
faint, hue, and so outlined, by what means he could 
not, at first, conjecture, that it presented a perfect 
simile of the objects indicated. Wolfgang, though 
not a whit alarmed, became intensely curious to learn 
the reason for the appearance. For several minutes 
together, he studied its peculiarities, while his steed, 
whose attention seemed also to have been drawn to 
the phenomenon, was evidently quite as deeply inter- 
ested in it as himself. For a time both of them 
remained as stationary as a statue, as did the object 
before them. At length, the horse turned his head 
toward his master as if to seek information concerning 
the spectacle, when, to Wolfgang’s astonishment, the 
aerial steed performed a like movement. Here was a 
deeply perplexing problem. What possible connec- 
tion could there be between the action of his own 
steed and the figure upon which he gazed? The 
next moment the animal’s head was restored to its 
former position, accompanied, in the change, by a 
corresponding movement on the part of the figure. 
Wolfgang now entered upon a series of experiments, 
making several varied gestures with his arms, chang- 
ing his position on the horse, and finally reining the 
latter about so that his side instead of his face was 
toward the east. Every one of these actions was 
attended with a corresponding one by the gigantic 


THE RECLUSE OF THE BROCKEN. 245 


apparition. Though now fully convinced that him- 
self and steed were closely allied to this remarkable 
exhibition, Wolfgang had no idea regarding the cause 
of the connection. Had there been a solid back- 
ground upon which the sun could have cast their 
shadows, his curiosity would have subsided, notwith- 
standing the magnitude of the aerial figure would 
have been greatly disproportionate to its cause. He 
was aware that many singular stories were adrift 
respecting phenomenal and even spectral appearances 
among the Hartz mountains. 

As regards the appearance above referred to, it may 
indeed be characterized as wonderful and singular, 
though it is said that similar effects have been wit- 
nessed in the Catskill mountains, and other places. 
It is known as the ‘‘Spectre of the Brocken,” and 
hundreds of tourists visit the locality every year to 
witness it. But it is only visible at the hour of sunset 
and when the sun is shining. The most reasonable 
theory concerning its cause is that the horizontal rays 
of the sinking orb project the shadows of those who 
chance to occupy a certain position, against the hazy 
eastern atmosphere which, being impregnated with 
the golden light, is in a state of partial illumination,* 
and, as is often the case with the moon when rising 
at or near the time of its second quarter, magnifies 
the shadowy formations cast against it, or luminous 
body shining through it. But even this explanation 
is still wanting in something to make it entirely satis- 
factory, since the conditions necessary to produce 
the effect are so rarely found. 


246 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Wolfgang continued his mental queries and specu- 
lations until the sun sank from view and the figures 
disappeared. Then, as if suddenly recollecting that 
he had more important matters to attend to, he 
reined his horse to the left and dashed downward, 
along what might have been known as a bridle path, 
to rpach the eastern base of the mountain. A rapid 
ride of fifteen minutes brought him to a small stream 
which issued from a spring among the pines skirting 
the mountain in that section. Though the shadow 
of the huge mass rendered objects quite indistinct, 
Wolfgang had no difficulty in selecting his way, as he 
had been there before. Following this stream in the 
direction of its source, he passed along a somewhat 
shallow though well-wooded ravine for nearly half a 
mile, when he came to a clearing of less than an acre 
in extent. On the west side of this, built closely 
against a foot cliff of the mountain, there stood a 
small, rude hut constructed of logs and earth, con- 
taining a doorway; an aperture, which served the 
purpose of a window ; and an escape hole for smoke 
at the ridge of the roof. Without hesitation, Wolf- 
gang rode directly toward the hut, but before he 
reached it, a man of more than sixty years emerged 
therefrom, and, moving a few paces, halted and 
peered through the gloom as if to ascertain who, at 
that hour, was seeking his solitary abode. 

In a few moments, Wolfgang reached the spot 
where he stood and accosted him in a familiar way 
by saying : 

A good evening to you, Hermann, and right 


THE RECLUSE OF THE BROCKEN. 247 

glad am I to find you still here, ready to give your 
friends a fair reception.” 

** Verily, I should know that voice; yet can I not 
at this instant determine who may be its owner,” 
replied the recluse — for such he was — as he regarded 
Diefenbach closely. 

‘^Your memory serves you but poorly, my good 
man. But methinks if it were the baron Schwarzberg 
who greeted you, it would not be so greatly at fault.” 

May his polluted name be recognized as saintly 
if you be not the seignior Holzendorf,” came from 
Hermann, in a smothered way ; his first reference 
being characterized by a bitter tone. 

Alack, Hermann, your memory is again treacher- 
ous. You overlook my former request not to apply 
that name until I so permit. Diefenbach will better 
serve my turn.” 

And Diefenbach it shall be, with my best com- 
pliments thereto. But seignior Diefenbach, you 
choose a ghostly hour for your wanderings in so wild 
a place ; though it may be you have been belated and 
have hit upon this gloomy time perforce.” 

Nay, the time when I should reach here was a 
matter that gave me but slight concern,” said Diefen- 
bach. “Though, to speak frankly, I was indeed 
delayed a little season by one of your Brocken ghosts, 
or something akin thereto, which rather chooses the 
broad glare of sunlight for self-display, than the more 
accordant gloom of the night.” 

“ Ah ! saw you, in truth, the mysterious shadow? ” 
asked Hermann. 


248 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


* * Yes, truly. Can you explain its nature or cause ? ” 
‘ ‘ Not I. It is a marvel that baffles the best skill 
of the wisest who have looked upon it. ” 

‘ ‘ Say you so. Then can I rank with them in that 
respect, at least. But come, my good Hermann, the 
air is somewhat sharp, and you disregard your duties 
as host. I am here, if you will it, to share your 
abode until the morrow.” 

I crave your pardon for my stupid neglect. Yet, 
as you may deem, I can promise you a shelter that 
but ill accords with your deserts.” 

‘^Apologies are not essential, my man,” said 
Wolfgang promptly. ‘‘ So that it serves as a place 
wherein I may munch a portion of your chestnuts and 
cheese ; test a measure, or so, of your wine ; hold 
with you some discourse, and obtain a few hours’ 
repose, it will meet my purpose well enough, I war- 
rant you.” 

“ So, so,” responded Hermann. I am glad you 
are not a dainty guest. But, good seignior, your 
steed will need some care, and my accommodations 
for him are, proportionately, as inadequate as those 
I must offer to you. He can share the little thatched 
shelter yonder with my goats,” and Hermann 
pointed to a section of the woods near his hut. But 
it was too dark to discern, from where they were, the 
object specified, it being located among the trees. 

<‘Give yourself no trouble, good Hermann. We 
shall fare well enough, I assure you. That you do 
not maintain a hostelry, is clearly understood. Be- 
sides, both my horse and myself have more than once 


THE RECLUSE OF THE BROCKEN. 249 


been compelled to accept poorer quarters than what 
you promise, when the weather was much worse con- 
ditioned than it is to-night. Lead the way, if you 
will, first to the goat shelter.” 

Without further parley, Hermann did as requested. 
In a little time the horse was disposed of for the 
night, when the two men repaired to the hut ; a light 
was struck, and, after a sufficient meal of coarse 
bread, cheese, and goat’s milk, supplemented by wine 
and the chestnuts Wolfgang had mentioned, the lat- 
ter proceeded to unfold the business that had caused 
him such a long journey to so uninviting a retreat. 

Have you visited Magdeburg, as I desired you to 
do when last here, some two months agone, friend 
Hermann ? ” he inquired. 

Faith, yes. Though sorry am I to say that but 
little was gained through my efforts to secure the in- 
formation you are so desirous to obtain.” 

** What ! could you glean nothing? ” 

‘‘ Marry, good seignior, the merest trifle of knowl- 
edge — a faint glimmer of light that fades before it 
can be fairly seen.” 

** Yet, perchance, it may be the earliest herald of 
approaching day,” added Wolfgang, continuing the 
figure. 

You shall judge,” said Hermann. I found that 
Ernest Haufmann purposed going to Leyden, in the 
Netherlands, some half score of years ago, and left 
Magdeburg. But whither he really went, no one 
seemed able to determine. 

‘‘ Why, that is something to my purpose, good Her- 


250 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


mann. We will follow him to Leyden to learn, may- 
hap, that he left there long ago for Brussels, whither 
we also will find our way, possibly only to ascertain 
that he may be found at Paris, at Madrid, or at Rome. 
This will afford us a further chase, and, as in the 
other cases, may end in disappointment. But so long 
as he remains above ground, we shall hope to over- 
take him some day, and then will we have a prize 
well worth the patience and labor expended to secure 
it.” 

‘ ‘ Ah, seignior Diefenbach, you will become a trav- 
eler of note,” said Hermann, jocosely. 

“ Then will there be two noted travelers, worthy 
host, since, as I hope you understand, you are to ac- 
company me.” 

** You will make a sad reckoning, I fear, if you 
select me as a companion on such a doubtful journey 
as that,” was replied. “ Truth to tell, good seignior, 
I know not how I could accommodate you’; for this 
chase after a ghost, as it may prove, means a goodly 
supply of funds, which I have not, and the despoiling 
of my place of abode.” 

** Neither of which considerations are of sufficient 
moment to necessitate my excusing you in this move- 
ment, upon the possible results of which a matter of 
so much weight is pending. As for funds, you shall 
have the privilege of spending as much of the baron 
Schwarzberg’s money as you please, for I have a 
purse well filled with it. So far as this home of 
yours is concerned, friend Hermann, I doubt not 
that you are warmly attached to it, and loth to give 


THE RECLUSE OF THE BROCKEN. 25 1 


it the farewell. But I promise that you shall return 
hither, if you will, or receive something better when 
our object is gained. Go, therefore, you must, as I 
shall need you to identify this Haufmann you spoke 
of, and assist in the dispensation of stern justice to 
Schwarzberg. ” 

And it is to be hoped that he may receive it, 
even though it be at a late day,” said Hermann. I 
shall yield myself to your desire, seignior Diefen- 
bach ; but to what extent I may dispose of Schwarz- 
berg’s ill-gotten gold will, I take it, be a matter for 
you to decide, since you, no doubt, are its present 
legitimate owner, yet by what stratagem, I know not.” 

Why, you should be able to determine that, 
friend Hermann, for from you did I receive the key 
that unlocks his well-filled coffers.” 

Mean you the knowledge I furnished concerning 
his fiendish deeds?” asked Hermann. 

Most certainly. It is a torture to him, the slight- 
est reference to which places in my purse any amount 
I may suggest. Alack, the day when his thirst for 
gold and his love for my brother’s wife made it possi- 
ble for me so to control him.” 

“ Yet would not my single story be sufficient evi- 
dence to bring upon his head the maledictions of the 
Church.” 

True,” said Wolfgang. '‘Could it have done 
so, Titelmann, or some one else equally skilled in the 
art of blood-letting, would long ago have settled his 
account. But you and Haufmann, with the baroness 


252 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

Schwarzberg to identify you, will meet every demand, 
I doubt not, they will make for proof.” 

Then will he receive his rightful deserts; for 
even were the churchmen, because of his fealty to 
Rome, to wink at his helping the count Holzendorf, 
your unfortunate brother, into the Elbe, they will 
scarcely fail to discipline him for appropriating the 
sacred treasures,” said Hermann. 

“Verily, they will not. Such is their notion of 
righteousness that any number of murders, not detri- 
mental to the Church itself, would not weigh equal, in 
their estimation, to one single act which bereft it of a 
portion of its gold. But jnark you, friend Hermann, 
a life is a life, even though it be flung heedlessly to 
the destroying flood of a river, and needs to be 
atoned for by a punishment that bears some compari- 
son to the deed.” 

“ Why, you are right, good seignior. Else would 
truth be barren of legitimate fruitage, and justice be- 
come but a myth and all reference thereto idle 
pleasantries,” said Hermann. “ But bethink you, 
worthy Diefenbach, the taking of your brother’s life 
was closely woven with the crime against the 
Church.” 

“Ay, marry, was it. The very stepping-stone 
thereto, as, also, to the gaining of his wife in wedlock. 
There is no lack of criminality, friend Hermann ; the 
sufficient proof of it is only wanting, and that will we 
secure, if it be above ground. Let us, therefore, ex- 
pedite our departure hence, which, I take it, may be 


THE RECLUSE OF THE BROCKEN. 253 


fairly reckoned upon by noon of to-morrow. How 
say you? ” 

^‘Ican so arrange,” responded Hermann, pro- 
vided I can secure the good offices of my nearest 
neighbor in caring for what I may leave behind until 
my return.” 

Nay, you shall donate all that’s left to him, un- 
less he volunteer to recompense you somewhat, for, I 
take it, you will not soon, if ever, return hither to re- 
sume your manner of life of years agone. Faith, dis- 
sent not, good Hermann, to my suggestion,” quickly 
added Diefenbach, noticing an expression on his com- 
panion’s face which indicated such a course. 
speak not at random ; for whether we be successful in 
tracing Haufmann or no, I intend that you shall be 
fairly well provided for during your remaining days.” 

‘‘You load me with kindness, noble seignior,” re- 
plied Hermann, with feeling. “It is charity and 
not reward you are urging me to receive. I have not 
earned such extreme consideration.” 

‘ ‘ Say you so ? Such language proves both your 
ignorance and your modesty. Listen. But a fort- 
night hence I extorted ten thousand thalers from 
Schwarzberg as a result of the information you have 
heretofore afforded me, enough to supply all your 
needs for time to come ; which amount had been pre- 
ceded by several lesser sums from the same source, 
and will be supplemented by others of increasing im- 
portance. So, you see, that, after the fulfilment of 
my promise just made, I shall still remain greatly 
your debtor, notwithstanding the satisfaction you will 


254 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


realize in aiding to bring a villain to the fate he de- 
serves.” 

“Well, well, good seignior, since you are deter- 
mined not to recognize my scruples, it were a waste of 
effort, on my part, to disapprove of your most liberal 
design ; and I have nothing left to do but thank you 
heartily, and give assurance of my extreme loyalty to 
the operations you propose.” 

“You conclude wisely, worthy Hermann,” said 
Diefenbach, with a gratified look. “ And now, let us, 
if you please, bestow ourselves to rest as soon as may 
be, so that the dawn will find us ready for making 
preparations to depart hence betimes oh the mor- 
row.” 

Hermann, heartily approving of the course indi- 
cated, the two soon stretched themselves upon the rude 
couch which occupied a shallow cave in the rock 
against which the hut stood, and were speedily 
oblivious to Schwarzberg, their plans for the morn- 
ing, and all the world besides. 


CHAPTER XX. 


THE BARON FOILED. 

R udolph reached Antwerp a day in advance of 
his requirements. The disguise he had as- 
sumed was of an entirely different character from the 
one in which he had appeared there two weeks be- 
fore, and, hence, his quondam host was unable to 
identify him with the Spanish peasant whom he had 
formerly served. This disguise accorded as fully 
with the spirited steed he rode as had his peasant’s 
garb with the jade he had previously used. The 
apartments at first occupied, were secured in the pres- 
ent instance. With this accomplished and his horse 
placed in charge of the groom, Rudolph was prepared 
to welcome the expected messenger from Christina ; 
and, although there was still a day to spare, he placed 
himself upon the qui vive for his appearance, not suf- 
fering himself to be absent from the hostelry for but 
a brief space at a time. Indeed, he could scarcely 
control a desire he realized at once to seek an inter- 
view with Christina, though at the risk of coming in 
contact with the baron himself. 

Not a great while subsequent to the commencement 
of these vigils, his attention was attracted to an indi- 
vidual who occupied a position at a window of the 
building directly opposite, and who seemed to be 

(255) 


256 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


performing the same office for the hostelry that he 
was for those who entered or passed it. Their eyes 
frequently met, and Rudolph, ere long, gained the 
impression that the stranger was holding him under 
close surveillance. This would have been a welcome 
conclusion to the young man could he have traced in 
the appearance of the person in question any sem- 
blance to a page. But there was nothing about him 
that suggested even the remotest likeness thereto, 
since he was a coarse, roughly arrayed individual, 
quite well advanced in years. Nevertheless, it ap- 
peared strange to him that he should have become the 
object of his scrutiny. At first, his curiosity was 
simply aroused; but as the espionage continued 
through several hours, it grew to be an annoyance ; 
so much so that Rudolph began to exhibit, in the 
looks he returned, a show of displeasure at what he 
deemed persistent incivility. Whether these had the 
effect to govern the movements of his neighbor oppo- 
site, he could not determine ; but the silent rebukes 
were soon followed by the withdrawal of the former 
from his position and his appearance at the street 
door. There he paused two or three minutes, glanced 
several times toward Rudolph, and then deliberately 
crossed the street and entered the inn. Rudolph 
wondered not a little at this procedure. He sur- 
mised that it was connected, in some way, with him- 
self. But how? Was it possible that the baron 
Schwarzberg had instituted a watch over his move- 
ments ? Such might be the case. How long it might 
have taken Rudolph to conjure up a deeply laid 


THE BARON FOILED, 


257 


scheme against himself, of which the baron was the 
inventor, may not be stated. One thing, however, is 
certain ; his mind was soon set at rest respecting the 
strange actions of the man who had so perplexed and 
annoyed him. Three minutes after the latter entered 
below, a low rap was given at the door of Rudolph’s 
apartment. On answering it the host told him that a 
person in the tap-room desired to see him privately. 
Rudolph hesitated a brief space, and then desired 
that he should be shown up. This was speedily done. 
As the young seignior expected, his visitor was the 
man from the opposite side. On being admitted and 
furnished with a seat, he said : 

** You will please pardon my intruding upon you, 
seignior, but I assure you my object is entirely a 
friendly one, even though, as I mistrust, you have 
deemed me something of an annoyance.” 

I confess that your close scrutiny of me has sug- 
gested such a thought. Still, you are welcome, since 
you have a friendly purpose in view. Can I serve 
you in any way ? ’ ’ 

On the contrary, I hope to serve you, if I maybe 
permitted to ask and receive answers to several ques- 
tions I desire to ask.” 

<^They shall receive suitable responses,” replied 
Rudolph. 

The man hesitated a few seconds, and then ob- 
served, inquiringly: 

‘ You are acquainted with the baron Schwarzberg 
and his family, seignior? ” 

Yes,” was the prompt response. 

17 


258 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


‘‘ And are somewhat interested in the baron’s 
daughter, Christina?” 

And if so, what then? ” asked Rudolph, giving 
his interlocutor a penetrating look. 

‘‘Nay, good seignior, my intentions are strictly 
honorable. You will acknowledge some regard for 
the fair lady referred to.” 

“ I grant you so much. Proceed.” 

“You are expecting at this time to receive a mes- 
sage from her at the hands of her page, seignior. Is 
not that so ? ” 

“ Faith, you would scarcely take rank as a page, I 
opine,” came from Rudolph in a facetious way. 

“ I claim not to do so, though I think you will ad- 
mit the truthfulness of my assertion.” 

“ I admit it. What further ? ” 

“ I can go no further, good seignior, unless you 
will do me the favor to pronounce your name.” 

Why should I? ” asked Rudolph, with emphasis. 

“ Because it is needful to your proper identifica- 
tion.” 

“ Verily, this is strange. You seem, through some 
means, to have obtained knowledge of my interests, lik- 
ings and expectations, and yet desire proof as to who I 
am,” said Rudolph, closely surveying his visitor’s 
face. 

“And, indeed, seignior, it is needful that I receive 
such proof, as a blunder — which is possible — may be 
disastrous to those most deeply connected with my 
mission.” 

“Who are you? ” came from Rudolph, shortly. 


THE BATON FOILED. 


259 

“ A friend to the person that I deem you are,” re- 
plied the visitor, calmly. 

Rudolph weighed this answer carefully. The 
thought that he with whom he was dealing might be 
an emissary of the baron, had from the first clung to 
his mind. But, then, he was, indeed, expecting a 
message from Christina, and he could scarcely be- 
lieve that the baron had knowledge of the fact. She, 
certainly, would let no one into such a secret, in 
whom she had not the most implicit confidence ; and 
there may have been the best of reasons for her not 
dealing directly with him through the medium of her 
page. Surely his visitor could not have gained the 
knowledge he had already revealed respecting his in- 
terests, unless Christina, or some one deputized by 
her had conveyed it to him. Thus concluding, 
Rudolph replied : 

“ I cannot but think that you come to me with a 
good design, and I shall, therefore, no longer hesitate 
to give you my name. It is Rudolph Rosenfeldt.” 

was almost positive of it,” replied the stranger, 
brightening. “ And, now, thanking you for your 
confidence, I take pleasure in presenting you with a 
message from the lady Christina.” 

Saying this, he drew from an inner pocket of his 
coat a small, well-sealed package, and handed it to 
Rudolph. The young man received it eagerly. He 
was quick to discover that there was no address on 
the outside, and that its somewhat soiled condition in- 
dicated that it had not been written very recently. 


26 o RUDOLPH OF ROSEAFELDT. 


Without referring, however, to these matters, he im- 
mediately broke the seal, and read as follows ; 

“ As this might fall into unfriendly hands, think it not strange 
that your name is not mentioned herein. But you will well 
understand from whom it comes, and carefully note its import. 
Very unexpectedly, and for what reason I know not, though 
surmising, my father has just directed me to prepare to leave 
Antwerp at to-morrow’s dawn. He declined informing me of 
my destination ; but, thanks to one in whom I may safely con- 
fide, 1 feel quite sure that it is Valenciennes. Yet, should my con- 
clusion be correct, I am unable to indicate how we may cer- 
tainly secure an interview there, or, indeed, communicate at all, as 
I am entirely unacquainted with the place. But if on your return 
to Antwerp, you can so dispose of your time as to visit Valen- 
ciennes, you will, undoubtedly, discover my page on the streets, 
some day, as I will cause him to wear a bit of blue ribbon on 
his right arm, and send him forth frequently with a message for 
you. Trusting that we shall meet again ere long, and only add- 
ing my initial, I close and commit this to my page that he may 
transfer it to a former attache of my father’s house, who will, in 
turn, endeavor to place it in your hands. Written on the day 
of your last visit at this house. C.” 

Rudolph read the missive twice before removing 
his eyes from the page. On leaving it, they sought 
his visitor’s face. He thought of a dozen questions to 
ask him ; but before he could express the first, he be- 
came convinced that not one of them could receive a 
satisfactory answer. 

You have been waiting for me for some time,” he 
at length said. 

Nearly a week, seignior,” was returned. 

Had you ever seen me before? ” 

*‘Yes. Several times.” 

“ Enough to enable you to penetrate my dis- 
guise ? ” 

^‘Nay, seignior; you would have baffled all my 


THE BARON FOILED. 


261 


efforts in that direction. But I was expecting you ; was 
quite sure you would be disguised ; and was told that 
you would, no doubt, take lodgings at this hostelry. 
These things, together with your actions after arriv- 
ing, which betrayed inquiry and expectation, led me 
to take the course I have.” 

** I thank you most heartily, and — if you will re- 
ceive them — here are a few thalers as a slight re- 
ward for your fidelity,” and Rudolph drew forth 
several pieces of the coin mentioned and thrust them 
into the visitor’s hand. The latter accepted them 
with a suitable expression of thanks, and a minute 
later, left the inn. 

Rudolph gave himself up to close reflection. But 
a brief time only was required to determine what 
course he should take. The sun was still more than 
an hour above the horizon. He would settle his bill 
at the hostelry, take horse, and by dark, be well on 
his way to Valenciennes, which he could reach before 
the end of the next two days. He had plenty of 
time in which to do this, spend several days in find- 
ing Christina, and return to meet Diefenbach, and 
probably Volkmer, on his return to Antwerp. Ten 
minutes later, his steed, at a rapid pace, was bearing 
him along the city streets, in the direction of the 
southwest. 

Rudolph entered Valenciennes quite as soon as he 
had anticipated doing. It was an easy matter for 
him to procure lodging room, but somewhat difficult 
to await with patience for the next morning in order 
to commence his search for the page. Time, which 


262 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


neither hastens nor delays so that human desires may 
be met, at length ushered in the wished-for hour. 

Soon after breaking his fast, Rudolph sauntered 
forth in a first endeavor to find the youth wearing the 
blue ribbon. But the hour of noon arrived, and he 
had failed to discover him. His effort was repeated 
in the afternoon with no better success. Neverthe- 
less, he must continue his endeavors. A week, a 
month should be given to the task if need be, even 
though each day his sensitive nature were tortured by 
defeat. 

The next morning he was again out betimes, and 
spent the day in unflagging effort, but, as before, 
without making the hoped-for discovery. The third 
day passed with like result. It was not until mid- 
afternoon of the fourth day that his endeavors were 
rewarded. A youth wearing the designated blue rib-, 
bon crossed his path. Rudolph turned and followed 
him until a comparatively unfrequented place was 
reached, when, tapping him on the shoulder, he 
asked : 

*‘Do you reside in Valenciennes? Pardon me; 
but I have good reason for making the inquiry.” 

‘<For the present, yes, seignior,” was returned. 

Were you seeking me? ” 

“Nay, I know not. And, yet, you wear a badge 
that should be worn by the person whom I much 
desire to find. Have you a special purpose in doing 
so, or is it the result of mere caprice? Excuse my 
inquisitiveness,” and Rudolph glanced at the rib- 
bon on the youth’s arm. 


THE BARON FOILED, 


263 


‘‘Ah, seignior, I have a very important purpose 
for wearing this ; and I will say that, if your object 
be to find one thus marked, I am connected with the 
house of the baron Schwarzberg. ” The speaker 
uttered this sentence just above a whisper. 

“Good!” ejaculated Rudolph, imitating the 
youth’s tone. “ And you are the page of the fair 
lady Christina? ” he continued. 

“ The same, seignior. And you, if I mistake not, 
are Rudolph of Rosenfeldt.” 

“ Faith, yes. Are you intrusted with a message 
from lady Christina to me? ” 

“ A very simple one, seignior Rosenfeldt. It is 
that you designate a place where I can again meet 
you after reporting to my mistress, when you will be 
informed regarding your next procedure.” 

“Then will you find me at this spot at any time 
during the mid-hours of to-morrow. Should I be 
absent at your coming, wait, as my return will be 
not long delayed.” 

“So will it be -understood, noble seignior,’^ said 
the youth. “ Have you any message for my lady ? ” 

“None, save that you inform her of my happiness 
to be subject to her will, and that it would greatly 
delight me could she so arrange as to deign me an 
interview ; though I do not covet it at the risk of her 
own happiness and freedom.” 

“I will acquaint her with your desire, seignior; 
and, unless you have something further to communi- 
cate, will bid you God-speed at once.” 

“You may inform your lady that I am acting in 


264 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


disguise, and deem it best that I so meet her, if an 
interview be permitted.” 

Saying this, Rudolph dismissed the page, and the 
next minute he had passed from his sight. 

Of course this brief interview removed a heavy 
burden from the young man’s mind. He was in 
communication with Christina. Still there was 
enough of suspense remaining to oppress him seri- 
ously. 

He was at the designated post comparatively early 
on the following day. But he loitered in its vicinity 
nearly three hours before Karl, the page, appeared. 
The latter, in this instance, had no verbal message to 
impart ; but he handed Rudolph a sealed missive, 
with the simple direction that he was to read and 
then destroy it. Thanking the page and excusing 
himself, he left him and sought his room at the inn. 
He soon devoured the contents of the brief message, 
and almost leaped for joy on learning that Christina 
was enabled to welcome him to her presence. 

The time set was noon of the -second subsequent 
day, when she expected her father to be absent for 
some hours. Rudolph was confident that he could 
abide his time with commendable patience. Never- 
theless, the minutes seemed to have suddenly increased 
their length indefinitely, and he became restless, 
moving about with nervous tread, as if he would thus 
hasten the approach of the moment when he could 
hasten to her side. It was singular that, after having 
absented himself from her for two whole years in 
Spain, he should now find a few hours so leaden and 


THE BARON FOILED. 


265 


irksome. But there was a cause — unreasonable or 
not — for this harassing condition of feeling. It was 
found in the extreme uncertainty that attached to the 
circumstances of the lovers. They wandered, as it 
were, in a strange, deep grotto, without a torch to 
indicate their surroundings, exposed, at each step, to 
treacherous precipices and fathomless chasms and 
pools. 

The time for the interview at length arrived, and 
Rudolph made his way to a small gate in the rear 
wall of the yard attached to Schwarzberg’s temporary 
residence. Here he waited a few moments, listening 
eagerly for any sound that might proceed from the 
enclosure, and then gave three low raps. These were 
instantly responded to on the opposite side. He 
repeated the signal, which was again met by a like 
return. Presently the gate opened cautiously, and 
Karl appeared with one finger placed across his lips 
to enjoin silence. Rudolph entered and found him- 
self under a tortuous bower of trailing vines, which 
extended from the wall to the dwelling. Along this 
the page guided him until they came to a narrow 
opening in the bower within a few feet of the build- 
ing and only a few steps from a stone balcony 
which extended across a portion of the rear. Through 
this opening, Karl made a rapid survey of the win- 
dows looking in that direction, as well as of the 
grounds. Satisfied that further progress was safe he 
motioned to Rudolph to ascend to the balcony and 
proceed to the only window that could be entered 
therefrom. To do this required but a very brief 


266 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


time. As he reached the casement, it opened and a 
lady’s hand waived him to enter. It was Christina’s. 
The rest of her form was hidden behind the shutter 
within. The moment he passed into the apartment, 
the casement was closed, and the next instant the 
lovers were locked in each other’s arms. 


CHAPTER XXI. 


AN INTERVIEW ABRUPTLY ENDED. 

T he room in which Rudolph found himself was 
of moderate size. The window noticed, and 
two doors opened into it, though only one of the 
latter had been used, so far as Christina knew, since 
she had been an inmate of the place. She had 
several times tried to open the other but it was, evi- 
dently, secured on the opposite side. As regards the 
appointments of the apartment, they were pleasant 
without being gaudy, and comfortable while not sug- 
gestive of extreme luxury. 

‘‘ Rudolph, we must speak guardedly and in under- 
tones,” said Christina. ** For, though my father is 
absent, I know not what means he may have devised 
for apprehending any movement of mine which 
might be displeasing to him.” 

True, we must act with caution, dearest. You 
shall see how fully I will meet your desires in all 
things; and we will both trust that no untoward 
circumstance will interrupt our converse, or render 
further interviews impossible. You must acquaint 
me with your history of the last fortnight, and I will 
repay you by relating something of my own. 
We shall both find enough to interest us, I doubt 
not.” 


(267) 


268 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


And sadden us also, I fear me, dear Rudolph." 

“ You shall know all," said Rudolph, with fervor, 
‘^even the worst. And right glad am I that your 
interest in me continues so unutterably deep, a thing 
which I have not ceased to believe since we last parted. 
But first let me say, Christina, that I received sym- 
pathy from a person, who, of all others, I least 
expected would reveal it." 

Right glad am I to hear it. Did I know him he 
should receive my heartiest thanks at our first meet- 
ing," eagerly replied Christina. 

**Nay, you do know him, Christina; and revere 
him, too. He stands as a wall of flint to protect us 
both from the severest pangs of our mutual trial. 
Can you not opine to whom I refer?" 

Say you so ? " came eagerly from the fair girl. 

Then could I pronounce his name, were he habited 
as a Benedictine," and the look and easy nod she 
gave Rudolph were deeply significant. 

**Ah, my dear Christina, you shall enjoy your 
own surmisings, while I betray not the trust which I 
deem he has reposed in me." 

** You need not labor to reveal further proof, 
Rudolph. I will rest content with present knowl- 
edge," was answered, archly. 

Rudolph smiled ; hesitated a moment, and then 
said : 

“ Since you are thus contented, may I be per- 
mitted to learn your experience since we last met? " 

*‘Yes, the whole, Rudolph, though it relates 
more to my inner than to my outer life. There is 


AN INTERVIEW ABRUPTLY ENDED. 269 


little to say concerning my father’s dealings with me 
and my own movements contingent thereon, apart 
from what was indicated in the note you must have 
received from me at Antwerp. I have been but two 
or three times beyond the limits of this building and 
its grounds, and have had no intercourse with any 
one besides my father and my faithful page Karl.” 

Rudolph bent and kissed the marble brow which 
revealed so much of harassing care. 

Your presence, Rudolph, allays much of my 
grief, though I may not escape being solicitous for 
the future.” 

Yet does it behoove us, Christina, to hope for a 
betterment of these conditions. . We must trust and 
pray that ominous clouds may not always envelope 
our skies. Come, I will show you by my own recent 
history, how shadows are dispersed, ofttimes when we 
least expect.” 

Saying this, Rudolph narrated, pretty fully, the 
exciting events attending his absence from Antwerp, 
not omitting his connection with Diefenbach, their 
adventure with Loandez, and Volkmer’s friendly 
offices, though he withheld the latter’s name, and the 
fact that the baron Schwarzberg had instigated the 
plot to secure Wolfgang’s destruction. Christina 
hung upon his words with deepest interest, and when 
he concluded, threw herself into his arms, while a 
flood of tears, the expression of both joy and sorrow, 
streamed from her eyes. She grieved because her 
lover had suffered so much, and rejoiced on account 


2/0 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

of his escape from the Jesuits, and his retention as 
heir to his father’s titles and estates. 

Rudolph, dearest Rudolph,” she said, when 
able to control her emotions, there must be some- 
thing potent in your new faith to hold you thus unalter- 
ably amid such severe tests and discouragements. 
Nay, do not marvel at this language,” she added, as 
a surprised though pleased look mantled his face, 
‘ for you must know that I am not altogether unim- 
pressible to that which can thus sustain one in the 
direst emergencies. Still do I tremble at the thought 
of discarding even an iota of the creed of the 
Church, or denouncing, in the mildest terms, those 
deeds of seeming cruelty to which the Church assents. 
Dearest Rudolph, I am suffering deeply in these 
respects. How shall I find relief ? ’ ’ 

* ‘ My dear Christina ! How honest you are. 
Your announcement fills me with rapture; and yet, 
somehow, I hesitate to offer counsel. Bethink you 
that this question is from a pronounced Catholic to 
an avowed Protestant, and that my answer would needs 
be such as to disparage your faith and inveigh against 
the Church which you have hitherto deemed the soul 
of sanctity and wisdom. Yet fain would I, with your 
free consent, show how utterly you, as well as myself, 
have been deceived in our views concerning both.” 

Alas, Rudolph, I am wandering, as it were, in 
an intricate labyrinth, whose confusing paths seem not 
to lead in any direction from indecision and distress.” 

“I can easily comprehend your condition, Chris- 
tina, because I have been in a similar one myself. 


AN INTERVIEW ABRUPTLY ENDED. 271 

And, since you have sought my counsel, let me say, 
first, that there is only one passage to a right solution 
of your question, and, secondly, that it terminates at 
the feet of Christ Jesus, if you will but take him as 
your Prophet, Priest, and King. You must accept 
him, and not the agents of Rome, or the Blessed 
Virgin, even, as your confessor. His merits, and no 
other, are the only means of salvation. No image 
worship ; no works of supererogation performed by 
others ; no system of penances ; no papistic absolu- 
tions or indulgences can afford you the slightest claim 
to pardon and justification. The sacred canon points 
to but one method of salvation. It is the germ of 
the great Reformation : < The just shall live by faith.’ 

Faith in God, the Father ; in Jesus Christ, the Son 
and Saviour ; in the Holy Spirit, the Enlightener and 
Comforter.” 

<< Ah me, I scarcely dare venture a step on any line. 
To you, dear Rudolph, who have crossed the Rubicon 
that separates between ‘ Mother Church ’ and Protest- 
antism, your suggestion may seem a simple and suffi- 
cient guide. But to me, having but now heard more, 
from your lips, of the new faith than I ever knew 
before, it comprehends so much and yet appears so 
fanciful that I fail to recognize how to make it effec- 
tive in my own behalf.” 

‘‘Ah, Christina, you do not consider how far you 
have already drifted from your former estate of spirit- 
ual bondage. Bethink you that within the range of 
a brief fortnight you have reached a point at which 
you are not only willing to hear the correctness of 


2/2 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 

your Church questioned, but are seeking the advice 
of its opponents in order to assist you farther from 
its dogmas and impositions. You will not forget how 
averse you were to my uttering a word against Rome 
at our interview in Antwerp. And, try as you would, 
I opine you could not return, with any degree of 
satisfaction, to the views you then entertained.” 

< ‘ Alas ! 1 am indeed a wanderer from home ; yet 
fearful to enter a strange abode, even though it be you 
who so earnestly wishes me to do so.” 

Much happiness indeed would I realize could you 
emerge from your present condition into what I am 
confident is the true light, so that the deep satisfac- 
tion I myself realize might be yours also. Neverthe- 
less, I depart not from my assurance of two weeks 
ago, that I shall not importune you in opposition to 
your convictions of right. Nor am I willing to assert 
that your life hitherto has been anything but pure, 
devout, and therefore innocent. Yet while this is so, 
pardon me if I venture to assert that it is not wise 
nor safe for you longer to retain your old faith, or 
hesitate to renounce those vows which bind you, with- 
out allowing you the right to reason and judge for 
yourself, to the decrees of the papacy. The cause for 
my thus speaking is this : you are evidently under the 
influence of the blessed Holy Spirit. He is seeking 
to lead you away from error to the truth. It is his 
peculiar office. And, though the way may now seem 
dark and tortuous to you, if you will act in passive 
obedience to his teachings, you are as certain to be 
emancipated from this spiritual slavery, as that you 


AN INTERVIEW ABRUPTLY ENDED. 273 

now breathe. I know there are considerations of a 
momentous character that will force themselves upon 
your notice. These include the indignation of your 
parents, chiefly your father; your ejectment from 
home, it may be ; possible imprisonment and torture ; 
or, in lieu of these, a train of sacrifices and hard- 
ships which might test severely your powers of endur- 
ance. But, dearest Christina, he to whom you would 
fly has left these blessed words for all who will accept 
and follow Him : ‘ In the world ye shall have tribu- 

lation but * in me peace. ' A peace that is a compensa- 
tion infinitely above all the hardships which may lead 
to and attend it. Bethink you also, my precious one, 
there are hundreds, nay, even thousands, who are, at 
this moment, conditioned as you are. Valenciennes, 
where we now are, can furnish many such ! To-day 
is this fair city resting on a volcano of heated feeling. 

*‘You surprise me, dear Rudolph. Does there 
indeed such an unwholesome state of feeling exist ? 
It is the first knowledge I have gained respecting it.” 

Ah, my Christina; you see how completely you 
are kept in the dark. But I know whereof I speak. 
You characterize this unrest as unwholesome. Let me 
assure you that it is the consequent fruitage of an 
unwholesome domination on the part of Rome. 
Those who are ranged adversely to her despotic 
mandates, as they are sought to be executed by her 
faithful agent, Margaret of Parma, regent of the 
Netherland provinces, are not all Protestants. Many 
devoted Catholics, who look with utter disfavor upon 
the Reformation, are quite as pronounced in their 

18 


274 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


opposition. The reason for this disquietude is an 
evidently well-founded rumor that Margaret intends 
to garrison the city with papists, in order that the 
edicts and Inquisition of Rome may have untram- 
meled sway among the citizens, forcing them to 
abject submission thereto, or turning them over to 
Titelmann and his bloody aids, as may seem most 
meet to the powers that be.” 

Alas, Rudolph, we live in an age of distraction 
and blood.” 

“ True, Christina. Intolerance and upheavals obtain 
on every hand. It is the working of the leaven of 
conscience, which for a half score of centuries ren- 
dered inoperative — except in two or three noted 
instances — by the frigid and heartless policy of Rome, 
has been warmed into activity by the burning words 
of the Sacred Oracles as enunciated by Martin 
Luther and his coadjutors. England has become 
permeated with its influence ; Germany, through its 
force, is in a state of ” 

A low exclamation, which amounted to a scream, 
burst from Christina’s lips, at this point, and 
abruptly terminated Rudolph’s utterance. He turned 
instinctively to the direction indicated by her fright- 
ened look, and beheld the baron Schwarzberg filling, 
with his presence, the doorway through which 
Christina had been unable, hitherto, to effect a pas- 
sage. 

For a few seconds, the lovers and their unwelcome 
observer remained as if petrified. The latter’s 
appearance was terrible. It seemed as if all the 


AJV INTERVIEW ABRUPTLY ENDED. 2/5 

furies had concentrated their wrath in his visage, and, 
for the time, deprived him of both speech and action. 
Christina, fully understanding his condition, realized 
the extreme peril to which Rudolph was exposed. 
This enabled her to rally first from the deepest effects 
of the encounter, and she exclaimed : 

“ Fly ! Rudolph ! fly.” 

‘ ‘ Nay, Christina, I must ’ ’ 

“ Hesitate not an instant ! ” she cried, in an 
agonized tone. 

Rudolph, now feeling that prudence dictated the 
.course Christina so anxiously suggested, hastily 
pressed his lips to hers, and with the words, <‘We 
shall meet again,” darted toward the window through 
which he had entered the apartment. The move- 
ment seemed to stir the baron’s owii powers of 
action, for, instantly, he sprang after him and caught 
his arm just as he was escaping from the casement. 
But, though he possessed much greater muscular 
force than did Rudolph, the latter, realizing his 
great needs, wrenched himself from the iron grasp, 
leaped the balcony, and, quick as thought, sped to 
the wicket at the rear end of the yard. This, failing 
to yield him immediate exit because of its secure fast- 
enings, he forced open by hurling himself with all his 
strength against it. 

Having gained the street, he lessened his speed 
somewhat until, after turning several angles, he came 
to the most frequented thoroughfare of the city, when 
he reduced his gait to a walk. His first thought now 
was that in his present costume, he was unsafe any- 


2/6 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


where in Valenciennes, and it behooved him at once 
to seek his own apartments and, by what aid he could 
secure, rearrange his disguise. He scouted the idea 
that suggested itself, of leaving the place without 
gaining some knowledge of the results of the unto- 
ward event as they affected Christina. This knowl- 
edge he believed he would receive, were it in Chris- 
tina’s power to bestow it. The page would, no 
doubt, be sent forth at the first opportunity, and he 
would intercept him, and learn from him concerning 
his mistress. 

Before the day closed, Rudolph’s appearance had 
undergone a complete change; so much of a one, 
indeed, that he could scarcely convince the host that 
he was the same person who had occupied his rooms 
for the past four days. 

The next morning found him abroad once more, 
seeking among the multitude for the boy wearing the 
blue ribbon on his arm. He was destined, however, 
as in the first instance of like effort, to continue his 
endeavors through several consecutive days. Karl 
and he at length came together. The page’s story 
was a very brief one ; but it was full of the deepest 
import to both the lovers. Christina was to be con- 
fined to absolute and forced seclusion — where, she 
knew not — and Rudolph, as soon as discovered, was 
to be given over to the merciless Titelmann. The 
stricken girl earnestly appealed to him to change his 
disguise, or leave Valenciennes without delay. 
Rudolph, having anticipated her regarding the change, 
resolved to remain in the city as long as he knew she 


AN INTERVIEW ABRUPTLY ENDED, 277 


was there, save the time it would require for him to 
return to Antwerp to fulfill his engagement with 
Diefenbach, and, as he hoped and prayed, to meet 
Volkmer. Concerning the latter, he was now, much 
more than he previously had been, anxious for the 
contact, as, in addition to learning from him his 
father’s disposition toward himself, he was entertain- 
ing the thought that the monk could somehow effect 
an amelioration of Christina’s unhappy condition. 
For while she had not informed him of Volkmer’s 
relation to the family as father confessor, nor of the 
consequent favors she had been the recipient of at his 
hands, he had received such hints as enabled him to 
feel safe in trusting his friendship to the fullest 
extent in her behalf. 

Karl was informed by Rudolph of his intended ex- 
cursion to Antwerp, and, also, told to convey to Chris- 
tina his urgent desire that she do nothing, if possible, 
to irritate her father and thus hasten her transfer to 
some point where she could not be reached by him- 
self, while the page was instructed to meet him, at a 
given point, on the third subsequent day. 

It would be useless to attempt an analysis of 
Rudolph’s feelings in his present emergency, since the 
best that could be said would fall far short of the 
actual truth. 


CHAPTER XXII. 


THE LEAVEN OF THE REFORMATION. 

O return to Christina. The condition in which 



1 Rudolph left her was a no less trying one than 
his own. For, while many dissimilar points are trace- 
able, those marking the first were, doubtless, as pro- 
motive of unrest and grief as those of the second. 
Indeed, in one regard, Christina was in a more unen- 
viable plight than was her lover. He, with some 
necessary restrictions as to appearance, still retained 
his freedom; she, on the other hand, was in absolute 
thraldom, and threatened with, and expecting some- 
thing — she knew not what — even more direful. 

The interview had between the baron and the 
unhappy girl immediately subsequent to Rudolph’s 
departure, was much more productive of acrimony and 
alienation than either, even since the abrogation of 
the marriage contract, had imagined could obtain. 
Nevertheless, a mysterious power seemed to have 
nerved Christina for the exciting event. 

Rudolph’s escape from Schwarzberg’s clutches had 
been immediately succeeded by an order from the lat- 
ter to several of his servants to search the streets for the 
fugitive in the hope of discovering his place of abode 
so that he might be apprehended and dealt with by 
the Church as was befitting a ranting heretic. Haply, 


(278) 


THE LEA VEN OF THE REFORMA TION. 279 


however, these minions utterly failed in their efforts. 
Rudolph seemed to be guided from, instead of into, 
their hands. On returning to Christina’s apartment 
after issuing his command, the baron placed himself 
immediately in front of her and subjected her to a 
scrutiny so full of anger, and, evidently, fraught with 
such stern and heartless resolves, as to almost deprive 
her of strength and thought. What to expect, she 
could not determine. No avenue of escape from ter- 
rible results seemed to open before her. In this 
extremity, instinct alone seemed to serve her purpose. 
Through its force a prayer, such as was not embraced 
in the ritual of Mother Church,” and which is only 
wrung from the torn and bleeding heart at its greatest 
needs, sped on her wavering thought to the Throne 
of Grace: O, thou eternal Christ, let me now 

realize thy strength ! ” 

The results which almost immediately followed this 
appeal were so remarkable that for a brief space her 
thought was entirely withdrawn from her environ- 
ments and prospects. She became conscious of hav- 
ing received strength in body, mind and heart. A 
sudden calmness, even a realization of joy, came to 
her heart. The power to meet and endure the baron’s 
deep displeasure with fortitude, and even heroism, 
was so clearly experienced by her that the next 
minute she transferred her gaze from the floor, to 
which, during his penetrating scrutiny, it had been 
directed, to his clouded face with so much of self- 
possession and evident preparation for the expected 
outburst, that he, unconsciously,, retreated a step and 


28 o RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


surveyed her changed aspect with unquestionable sur- 
prise. But the traces of this emotion speedily passed 
away. The baron’s heart was too thoroughly charged 
with wrath to let any other feeling long predominate. 
At length he spoke. 

Well, daughter mine,” came in a half-hissing 
tone from his quivering lips, ‘‘ you have been pleased 
utterly to ignore my commands while practicing the 
basest deception your bewitched heart could con- 
ceive.” 

** Your daughter?” said Christina, in a question- 
ing way. 

“Ay, truly. You well understand the word, I 
opine,” replied Schwarzberg, as his surprised look of 
a few moments before returned. 

“ Your daughter? ” was repeated. 

The reiteration, together with the facial expression 
that attended it, nonplussed the baron, and he stared 
at her in a manner that indicated both curiosity and 
increased surprise. But he rallied quickly, and, with 
increasing fierceness, inquired : 

“ What mean you, deceitful wench, by such ill- 
beseeming and unblushing brazonry? ” 

Now, Christina, in these responses, had no inten- 
tion of betraying the secret Volkmer had confided to 
her keeping. Nevertheless, she had hastily conceived 
the design of in this way arousing his suspicion that 
she had, to say the least, some inkling respecting the 
relation existing between them. Such mistrust, she 
imagined, might tend to modify his conduct toward 
her. The effect corresponded to her desires. 


THE LEA VEN OF THE RE FORM A TION. 281 


Schwarzberg was more deeply wrought upon by the 
ruse than his appearance indicated. But his estimate 
of her duplicity ; his rancorous feelings toward her ; 
and the punishment he had designed for the course 
she had pursued underwent not the slightest change. 
Whatever she might have learned respecting their rela- 
tionship, he determined that her attempts to thwart 
his purposes should be met by chastisement equal to his 
view of the offense. 

*‘Nay, my father — if you will admit of such 
address — your language befits not the close affinity 
which your previous utterances indicated as existing 
between us. I marvel that you can assume such a 
bearing to one who has been taught to regard herself 
as your own offspring.” 

This reply was rendered with an intense intonation, 
though her spirit seemed so imperturbed and self-con- 
tained, that the effect thereof upon the baron was 
quite as pronounced as was the language itself. Hav- 
ing been quick to perceive that her former thrusts had 
not been without effect, she still clung to the device, 
believing it to be her only shield against his ire and 
vindictiveness. After regarding her for a time in 
silence, he approached her so closely that she could 
feel his breath upon her brow. Then raising an arm, 
menacingly, he responded in a low but vigorous 
tone : 

** Girl, how dare you thus repeatedly to insinuate 
that I am not your veritable parent ? Has that deluded 
and renegade heretic, who, I opine, has ere this been 
disinherited by his father, the noble count Rosen feldt, 


282 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

sought to poison your mind with, not only the sick 
sophistry by which he seeks to defend his idiotic 
faith, but, also, with covert suggestions that you are 
not really my child ? '' 

The response to this completely staggered the 
baron. 

Nay, he has sufficient sin to atone for, in your 
estimation, I deem, without such an unpardonable 
addition. Though my manner of address may bear 
the semblance of mystery, be assured that it is not 
the result of his conniving. Mayhap, the ground for 
your suspicions can be found in your self-recognized 
unnatural treatment oi your childF 

It is false ! ” came the excited return to the last 
sentence. A multitude of instances, nay, a con- 
tinuous course of righteous conduct have attested the 
relationship I claim. And because of my intense 
love for you, do I essay to correct the grievous errors 
that certain subtile and nefarious influences have led 
you to pursue. This treacherous Rudolph of Rosen- 
feldt, whose waywardness astounds me, and for whom 
I entertained such profound respect and love, is seek- 
ing, not only his own utter destruction, but yours 
also. Scarcely could I have believed him to be so 
audacious as to attempt this, and you so weak as to 
heed him, had not the Blessed Virgin herself, as I 
deem, enabled me to detect his wanton use of infer- 
nal agencies by becoming an actual listener to his 
seductive words. Nay, speak not now. You would 
affirm, I trow, that only his last utterance reached 
my ears. But I will disabuse your mind of such 


THE LEA VEN OF THE RE FORM A TION. 283 


thought, while revealing my very good reason for my 
severity and apparent want of parental regard, by 
asserting that all which passed between you touching 
your unhealthful, because doubting, spiritual state, 
and his nefarious instructions and appeals was clearly 
heard by me. A closed door, therefore, as you may 
deem, is not the best of safeguards. Can you regard 
me as otherwise than deeply solicitous for your soul’s 
well-being? Should not the parent seek to shield 
the child ? Yet, alas, you seem to assume that I 
exceed both duty and right in performing requisite 
service both for yourself and ^ Holy Mother Church.’ 
But this must and will I do ; and hence direct you at 
once to hasten back to the safe harbor of her bosom, 
for evident is it that you have woefully departed 
thence, and are now drifting upon an unknown and 
treacherous sea.” 

This command did not excite Christina’s indigna- 
tion or hatred toward the baron; for these, even 
under such extreme provocation, could not, with the 
new feeling engendered at the commencement of the 
interview dominating her spirit, have been aroused. 
But her resolution to be directed by the light which 
had begun to glimmer through her mind, became 
more firmly established ; and she received additional 
reenforcement in the thought that while the baron 
had the power to determine her bodily movements, 
her intellect and heart were beyond the influence of 
his dictations. Yet she thought it not best to state so 
much, and, hence, replied : 

^ ‘ Whatever you may have learned of the interview 


284 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


between Rudolph and myself, father, certainly noth- 
ing thereof revealed an expectation, on my part, of 
accepting the Protestant faith. That I have misgiv- 
ings touching some matters connected with the creed 
of < Mother Church,’ it would be wrong forme to 
deny. But I have much to be convinced of ere I 
entirely forsake her ritual and assume the faith of the 
Reformers. But I am not the only one who, while 
professedly clinging to Rome, withholds from her the 
full meed of devotion she claims. Be not startled or 
angered when I venture to assume, for good reasons, 
that you yourself fail heartily to submit to all her de- 
mands, though it is believed that you so do by those 
less acquainted with your private life than I am.” 

Again was the baron confounded by the knowledge 
of his affairs which Christina had obtained, or, at 
least, which she seemed desirous that he should 
suspect she possessed. Whether to believe this to be 
simply assumed by her in order to secure some 
advantage, or that she was intimating only what she 
knew, he could not decide. But he realized that one 
effect, which she may not have sought to produce, 
was certainly secured — a diversion of his thoughts 
from the object to which he attempted to urge her 
attention. Mentally acknowledging this weakness on 
his part, he determined to pursue, with an iron will, 
what he deemed his only true policy toward her. 

^^Beshrew your baseless insinuations,” he replied. 
** Your idle pratings are as fitful and idiotic as eddy- 
ing gusts of wind. Think not that such sickly sub- 
terfuges furnish a protection against the just discipline 


THE LEA VEN OF THE REFORMA TION, 285 

you are to receive. Nor need you hope to escape 
therefrom. And I will also look well to it that he 
upon whom you lavish your misguided affections 
comes not again in your way, unless he recant, and 
by renewed vows and penances, return to the faith he 
has so foully assailed.” 

With these words baron Schwarzberg left the apart- 
ment by the way he had entered it. Christina 
retained the position she had occupied during the 
interview, for some time longer. Her thoughts, as 
may be conjectured, were of a deeply affecting char- 
acter, and during the greater part of her meditations 
the tears trickled down her cheeks. That there was a 
wonderful, mysterious alliance between the receivers 
of the new faith and the blessed Jesus, she was more 
and more inclined to regard as a fact. But her soul 
was yet enveloped in the fogs of Rome’s bewildering 
creed to such an extent that, while some faint rays of 
light from the Sun of Truth had sifted through them to 
her, she was still in a maze of perplexity and doubt. 
She resolved to again appeal directly to the Lord 
Jesus himself, without regard to the intervention of 
the Blessed Virgin, or the saints. Under this influ- 
ence, she sank to her knees, though not, as was her 
wont, before the little silver crucifix which surmounted 
a pedestal in one corner of her room. Thus humbly 
bowed, she lifted a silent invocation to the throne 
which, whatever else it may have lacked, was full of 
unrestrained longings for aid and deliverance on the 
side of acceptable and saving faith. For many min- 
utes together, she retained this attitude and continued 


286 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


her appeals. The results of the effort, though not 
then fully meeting her desires, was the subduing, in a 
good degree, of her perturbation of spirit, and an 
encouragement to give such a course a more extended 
trial. 

Though Christina was still unable to discover the 
goal of complete spiritual emancipation, she had 
advanced so far in its direction that, as Rudolph had 
assured her, she could not, had she longed to do so, have 
returned. It now seemed to her that the leading object 
of the Church was to subordinate everything within its 
reach to its control, relegating soul salvation to a second- 
ary place in its economy. Its gorgeous ceremonials ; its 
glittering paraphernalia ; its sacerdotal rites and 
sanctimonious professiorfs were, she had begun to 
suspect, but the attracting spangles of an outer gar- 
ment, while beneath was draped the coarse, repulsive 
fabric of tyranny and deceit, dripping with the blood 
of dissenters. 

In this state of mental suffering, during which she 
oscillated like a pendulum, between hope and fear, 
Christina spent the several succeeding days. This 
lapse was marked by two or three interviews between 
herself and the baron. These tended still more to 
embitter her feelings and strengthen her prejudices 
against popery. Such effect was due, in a great 
measure, to his harshness and heartlessness of address. 
Had this been of an affectionate, yearning cast from 
the first, it is not impossible that her tendency to 
Protestantism might have been checked, even though 
her complete reconciliation to the old faith failed to 


THE LEA VEN OF THE REFORMATION. 287 


be secured. But Schwarzberg grew more rigid and 
exacting. Each succeeding interview was character- 
ized by increased acrimony and despotism ; and it 
became manifest to the persecuted girl that some 
deep trial much more severe than those she had 
already experienced, awaited her in the near future. 
This was indeed true. Schwarzberg, being convinced 
that Christina was totally irreclaimable, had deter- 
mined to pursue a most fiendish course — one that had, 
occasionally, in earlier times, been adopted by the 
most rancorous minions of the Church in order fitly 
to punish, as they regarded it, the most obdurate 
and persistent cases of heresy. 


CHAPTER XXIII. 


A PURPOSE AND A PLOT. 


HE day following the baron’s last interview with 



1 Christina, father Volkmer entered Valenciennes. 
Without much delay or effort, he ascertained from 
some of his Benedictine brethren, where the Schwarz- 
berg residence was to be found, and proceeded 
thither with as much speed as his bent form and 
somewhat staggering gait would allow. Of course, 
he was welcomed by the baron. Indeed, the cor- 
diality of this reception exceeded any former ones. 
This was due to the deeply interesting state of things 
that had obtained in relation to Christina and him- 
self. The baron was desirous of communicating to 
some one a knowledge of all the circumstances 
involved, and to whom could this be done with more 
implicit confidence than to his ever faithful father 
confessor. He believed him to be in sympathy with 
all his operations, and was convinced that even his 
terrible decision relative to the disposal of the violent 
heretic, as he now termed Christina, could be 
entrusted to the monk without fear of dissent or 
betrayal. He, therefore, at once proceeded to un- 
bosom his griefs and indicate his resolve. 

Alack, good father,” he said, << you find me, as 
at our last meeting at Antwerp, in a very unenviable 


(288) 


A PURPOSE AND A PLOT. 289 

condition of feeling, and, as a result, your holy 
offices will be most necessary and opportune.” 

“Verily, worthy seignior,” replied Volkmer, “I 
was entertaining the hope that thy severe trial had 
found a sufficient antidote in the dispensations that 
* Holy Mother Church ’ ever vouchsafes to her afflicted 
children.” 

“It is indeed true, father, that her wise counsels 
and timely consolations as tendered by you, one of 
her most devoted servants, did greatly sustain me in 
the trial I then underwent. And were that the only 
matter to consider, it would ill-become me to nurture 
the sorrows I erst experienced therewith. But a 
plight, involving much more of anguish than was 
then realized, is dispensing its poison through every 
moment of my daily life, rendering.it like a continual 
process of dying.” 

Say you so, my noble Schwarzberg. Truly, thy 
announcement more than surprises me. Nor may I 
rest, nor, indeed, hope to administer a grain of con- 
solation to thy stricken heart, until thou fully 
acquaintest me with the nature and cause of this most 
lamentable cond.ition. Has that brazen heretic, the 
wily Rudolph of Rosenfeldt, dared to intrude himself 
upon thy notice and repeat his insolent demands con- 
cerning the lovely Christina? ” 

“ Alas, yes; so has he done,” said Schwarzberg, 
assuming a deeply sorrowful tone. “ He has not, 
indeed, persisted in his claims by direct address to 
me. Yet he did surreptitiously, though by what 
stratagem, I know not, gain an entrance to my 
19 


290 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

daughter’s private apartment, where I myself sur- 
prised them both, he making most fanatical and 
infernal efforts to destroy her life-long faith, and she, 
hanging upon his sophistry with an interest that 
would have assured the most obtuse mind of ultimate 
success.” 

‘‘ Holy Mary ! ” exclaimed Volkmer, in a smoth- 
ered way, as he crossed himself. 

It was a bold deed for him to perform, truly, and 
I marvel much tliat he had the foolhardiness to 
attempt it. But I opine that he will not soon under- 
take its repetition.” 

*‘What!” came from Volkmer, quickly, ‘Midst 
thou permit him to escape ? ” 

“ Nay, it was my design, good father, fully to 
entrap him ; and, in truth, I seized the villain by the 
arm ; but, with a sudden wrench, he slipped my 
hold, and in an instant sped through the casement to 
the yard at the rear, and, ere I could start my ser- 
vants in pursuit, had gained the highway and thus 
eluded us. But I warrant you he shall yet pay for 
such unwonted temerity.” 

“So may he do,” responded the monk, with ani- 
mation. “But, verily, he seems to be an adept at 
making escapes. He gave a trio of us the slip one 
night less than a league from his father’s castle, not- 
withstanding his hands were pinioned and he was 
hampered with a chain and ball to boot.” 

“ Mean you that he fled with such encumbranc- 
es?” asked the baron, evincing great surprise. 

“Faith, no; though I should have wondered no 


A PURPOSE AND A PLOT. 


291 


less, methinks, at such an accomplishment than at 
what he verily did. By some agency, whether Sa- 
tanic or no, I leave you to conclude, he rid himself of 
the boar’s hide strand which thrice encirled his wrists 
and was doubly knotted, and then, as I suppose, de- 
tached the chain and ball. Thus freed, he sped away 
like a flash, capsizing me in his passage on the verge 
of a rushing torrent, into which I was in danger of 
being plunged without the opportunity of repeating 
a single Ave Maria.” 

<‘And you apprehended him not again?” ques- 
tioned the baron. 

* ‘ Marry ; could I apprehend the gale, or overtake the 
lightning? He was beyond sight ere his absence was 
discovered, albeit that was scarcely five seconds sub- 
sequent to his flight.” 

How came he to be thus closely held ? ” 

Alack, it is a grievous story, and one of some 
length, also; yet will I tell it thee since thou art 
so closely involved in his wayward pranks,” and 
Volkmer began and detailed much that had transpired 
pertaining to Rudolph’s visit which, of course, in- 
cluded the inquisition and its results. Schwarzberg was 
a profound listener, and realized no little satisfaction 
at the disposition which both the count and countess 
of Rosenfeldt — according to Volkmer’s description — 
entertained toward the recreant youth. He deemed 
this a full endorsement of the rigid policy he himself 
had pursued. 

It is a most grievous case, in very truth,” he ob- 
served when the monk had finished his narration. 


292 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

“ Nay, it is without a parallel in my own experi- 
ence,” Volkmer replied, when taken in connection 
with his audacious visit at thy present place of abode. 
Such defiance of all that is holy cannot long elude the 
punishment it deserves. But, good seignior, we have 
been diverted from our first subject of discourse. I 
am deeply anxious to learn what reckoning thou didst 
have with thy fair daughter for such foolish and sin- 
ful connivance. 

< ‘ Alas, I know not whether any effort of hers aided 
him hither. His advent may have been as great a 
surprise to her as that I realized on discovering them to- 
gether. Yet of this am I assured, that she received 
with evident relish his impious rehearsal of the hate- 
ful creed he has embraced, though she did not in- 
stantly accept it as her own. But since then, it 
grieves me to say, she has diverged rapidly from the 
true faith, and my most importunate appeals fail to 
arrest her folly, to say nothing of awakening a desire 
to retrace her course.” 

Then must she indeed be classed among the rep- 
robates. Alack, it is a most woeful state she occu- 
pies,” and Volkmer seemed deeply grieved by the 
facts given. ** Deemest thou, good seignior, that I can 
effect aught to restrain her frenzied demeanor ? ” 

I heartily wish you could, holy father, and perad- 
venture you may; though should you make the at- 
tempt, I promise that your wits will be put to the 
severest test.” 

*• ‘ Then will I interview her ere I leave, and thou 
mayest be well assured that no efforts my thought can 


A PURPOSE AND A PLOT. 


293 


suggest will be left untried. But in the event that 
she remain incorrigible, what course wilt thou pur- 
sue ? " 

There is but one to follow, good father, if my 
own fealty to ‘ Mother Church ’ remain unquestioned. 
Can you not surmise my meaning?” and Schwarz- 
berg regarded the monk’s face with a penetrating look. 

‘ ‘ She must pay the extreme penalty which her per- 
sistent violation of most sacred vows entails,” was 
answered with impressive slowness. 

‘^So much have I concluded, worthy counselor of 
mine. I may not suffer the faintest suspicion to at- 
tach itself to my churchly record through an exer- 
cise of leniency to one so misguided and reckless.” 

Verily, thou art one of Rome’s rarest jewels,” 
said the monk, with energy. Let me applaud thy 
loyalty in unstinted terms. Thy steadfast heart is a 
most fitting companion for that of the noble count 
Rosenfeldt, of whose unyielding truthfulness I but a 
few moments since advised thee. Would it be thy 
will to consign her to the hands of our most excel- 
lent Titelmann ? ” 

Volkmer awaited an answer to this inquiry with a 
look of eager expectation. 

In good sooth, I would do so, worthy father, 
were it not that I deem his modes of procedure some- 
what expeditious for a case of this kind. While they 
are the most suitable for such as are entrusted to him, 
they are scarcely adapted to this peculiar one. It is 
the jerk of a rope or the stroke of an axe with him. 
I incline to something slower, by which the offender 


294 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

may be wrought up to a thorough realization of her 
condition, if, happily, ere it be utterly too late, a feel- 
ing of sincere penitence, followed by full recantation, ^ 
may obtain, while yet she remains free from bodily 
harm.” 

Thou revealest thy wisdom, noble Schwarzberg, 
and I know not which most to admire, that, or thy 
devotion to the faith. Yet am I not advised touching 
the nature of thy plan.” 

“ Nay, but you shall be, albeit none but those deep- 
ly interested, as are you, should receive the slightest 
inkling thereof. There was, in the palmiest age of the 
Church, when she held untrammeled and rightful 
sway, a device sometimes resorted to which, by the 
torture its consummation guaranteed to the persistent 
culprit, was well calculated to effect that reversal of 
her course for which the faithful had, thitherto, ap- 
pealed and prayed in vain. It was to mason her up 
in some secluded nook, there to die, either from the 
effects of poisoned air, or of starvation, should she 
continue obdurate. Your wide knowledge of the 
Church’s expedients in the past will, I doubt not, 
holy father, enable you instantly to recall this one.” 

At the mention of this method, Volkmer instinct- 
ively started, while a perceptible shudder coursed 
through his frame. But it was the terrible nature of 
the expedient itself, and not the heartlessness — which 
he well knew — of the man who had announced it, 
that produced this effect. Volkmer was indeed aware 
of its former use, while feeling that none but the basest 
would, for a single instant, entertain the thought of 


A PURPOSE AND A PLOT. 


295 


adopting it. He was quick, however, to turn his 
evident agitation to good account, and almost im- 
mediately replied : 

Verily, most worthy seignior, thy intense loyalty 
to Our Lady transcends all my previous conceptions 
thereof. Marvel not that 1 was moved as thou must 
have noted. Assuredly, thou dost merit the highest 
plaudits of the Vatican itself, and well would the 
Church consider thy need, should she, in time to 
come, honor both herself and thee by placing thy 
name among her canonized sons and daughters.” 

Good father, though I can but thank you for 
your estimate of my fealty, I must believe that such an 
extreme far exceeds my dues,” replied the baron, 
though his pleasure at the flattering words of the monk 
was plainly evident in both looks and tone. 

Thy meek words, noble Schwarzberg, evidence 
an additional commendable virtue. Hast thou yet 
conferred with others concerning this most important 
work ? ’ ’ 

Not yet. I have scarcely more than decided 
upon the procedure. Some designing will be 
requisite so to operate it as that it shall be barren 
of parade and ostentation. Besides, such course will 
avert the possibility of interference therewith by the 
heretical plotters so well represented in Valenciennes.” 

True. Secresy of action will best subserve thy 
purpose, good baron,” said Volkmer, slowly. Then, 
following a brief pause, he continued : “ Knowest 
thou, worthy Schwarzberg, that since thou didst first 
indicate thy design, I have been led to consider, as oft 


296 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


I have done ere this, the truly inadequate returns the 
Church is disposed to make to those of her exception- 
ally faithful children who, like thyself, evince a spirit 
of sacrifice and devotion which renders her continued 
healthy influence and stability, assured facts ? ” 

I have heard such consideration mooted before, 
holy father, though never deeming the thought appli- 
cable to my own doings,” said the baron, as he gave 
the monk a questioning look. 

Thou wouldst not be amiss in so rating thy worth, 
I warrant thee. And I have opined that there be 
instances wherein, because of such lack of return, one 
might righteously recompense himself, did the oppor- 
tunity safely permit him so to do.” 

I confess to such dullness of apprehension, good 
father, as to be unable to discern your intent,” and 
Schwarzberg regarded the monk with a look which 
evinced deep curiosity. 

I marvel not at that,” said Volkmer, with a look 
indicating admiration. ‘^It is thine own utter guile- 
lessness which prevents thee from noting seemingly 
questionable designs, as others would deem them, 
when suggested by one in whom thou hast been well 
pleased to repose thy confidence. And it may be 
that thou thyself, when clearly apprehending my 
meaning, will find thy trust in me decreasing. But 
yield thou not to thy first impulse, as I can furnish that 
in the way of argument which will convince thee that 
my assertion, not only, is worthy of regard, but, also, 
that its practical illustration would be both righteous 
and expedient. Let me indicate a chain of circum- 


A PURPOSE AND A PLOT. 


297 


stances, suggested, in part, by thy own practice. Thou 
hast nobly sustained the Church, and responded fully 
to every claim she has made upon thee. Thou hast 
ever been honest in thy confessions. Thou hast 
never sought her indulgences for either thyself or 
others. And now, for her sake, thou designest the 
sacrifice of thy most precious jewel, the only child of 
thy loins, as an indication of thy fealty to the faith 
and thy abhorrence of her heretical foes. Neverthe- 
less, instead of receiving a grain of recompense for 
these displays of virtue, thou hast scarcely more than 
escaped her bans and the bloody fate she metes out to 
those who but awaken her slightest distrust. Nay, 
hasten not, noble seignior, to pronounce such utter- 
ances defection,” said the monk, noticing the baron’s 
surprised look. speak not idly, though freely. 

Thou hast reposed full confidence in me as thy father 
confessor, and I do now reciprocate the same. There 
be some things which I know, that may not now be 
revealed, so unseemly and dissolute in their nature, 
that to merely mention them would, I opine, so shake 
thy faith in the higher functionaries of the Church as 
to render thee uncertain of an hour’s respite from 
decapitation at their hands.” 

*‘What! say you so, sincerely; or do you thus 
seek to test my fidelity to churchly vows ? ” inquired 
Schwarzberg, nervously. 

‘ ‘ Nay, good seignior, it is not my wont to jest upon 
matters of such grave concern.” 

‘‘Marry; what would you have me do, holy 
father ? ” came quickly from the baron. 


298 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


‘‘Why, it behooves not me to reveal how thou mayest 
secure thy rights. I but rehearsed some portion of 
thy unstained record, which indicates thy deep relig- 
ious zeal, and hinted that thou hast not been overpaid 
therefor. For this, perchance, thou mayest thank 
me by the suggestion that it smacks of heresy. But, 
mark thee, I could secure myself agains-t any evil 
results therefrom.” 

“ Alack, worthy father, you run far astray if you, 
in any degree, suspect me capable of so regarding 
your well-intended expressions,” said Schwarzberg, 
deprecatingly. ‘ ‘ I but seek your counsel ; yet, just 
here, I seem not to catch the meaning of your some- 
what singular address.” 

‘ ‘ Why, it lies well to the surface, as I deem. 
Whether thou canst ; or wilt, if thou canst, repay thy- 
self somewhat for the great service thou hast rendered 
to the Church, remains with thee to say.” 

“I will acknowledge that it is within my power, 
good father, to secure such recompense,” said the 
baron, hesitatingly. 

“ But thou wilt not use thy power.” 

“ Nay, I said not so.” 

“ Yet, methinks, thou shrinkest from such act, 
albeit there are scores who would grasp for thy 
chance, notwithstanding the Church esteems their 
lives as pure as snow. What recourse hast thou ? ” 

“Faith, much of her gold is in my keeping.” 

“And she retains a strict account thereof ? ” said 
Volkmer, in a questioning way. 


A PURPOSE AND A PLOT. 299 

* ^ Truly. Who ever knew her to be at fault in mat- 
ters of such sort ? ” 

But she would absolve him whose doubly secured 
chests had been broken and plundered. Thinkest 
thou not so?” 

‘‘ Marry, I know not. There is but little absolution 
granted, at this day, to such as sin against her creed 
or coffers. And what you speak of she might deem 
a negligence not to be left unpunished.” 

Such mishaps are not uncommon, as thou know- 
est,” said Volkmer, with a peculiar look. ^‘Yet 
would I not counsel thee to such a trick. Act as thy 
interests and conscience shall direct.” 

“Ah, good father, I have so schooled my con- 
science that I count not that an interest of mine which 
varies therewith. Nor must any temptation be suf- 
fered to war against its mandates. This course at 
which you have hinted, I shall consider with scrupu- 
lous care, and if I find it both right and safe, your 
wisdom shall not be questioned by my refusal to adopt 
it.” 

“Now speakest thou to purpose,” said the monk, 
with evident satisfaction. “Nor need I conjure thee 
to be as subtile as the serpent and as stealthy as the 
mole if it be so that thy sensitive conscience and 
unselfish interests tally in this direction.” 

A perceptible smile played around Volkmer’s lips 
which, had the baron’s misgivings been awakened, 
touching his confessor’s sincerity in making this 
strange suggestion, would have destroyed, not only 
his intention — which was already fixed — to purloin 


300 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

the money, but would have sealed his lips against 
further communication relative to his proposed deal- 
ings with Christina. But Schwarzberg, though sur- 
prised, was credulous. Nor could it have been 
possible for the monk to have selected a more vulner- 
able point to assail, than the man’s avarice. Of this 
he was well convinced. And, now, satisfied that he 
had secured an advantage which would greatly aid 
his subsequent actions, he proceeded still further to 
appropriate the baron’s confidence to his use. 

I crave thy pardon, most worthy seignior,” he 
continued, almost immediately, “ for diverting thy 
thought from the recreant child, of whose disposal 
thou hadst begun to inform me.” 

True,” said the baron, ‘‘ we have strayed some- 
what from that consideration ; yet I can state but 
little more in connection therewith, since my arrange- 
ments for forwarding my purpose are still incomplete ; 
indeed, I may say, scarcely conceived. Perchance, 
good Volkmer, you will not be averse to dispensing 
your counsel in this regard, also. Since we first 
became allied, your visits to my abode have always 
been most opportune, bringing consolation and 
encouragement in my seasons of greatest need.” 

** Right glad and thankful am I to have thus been 
enabled to serve thee. And ill would it now befit me 
to refuse what little assistance it may be in my .power 
to render in furtherance of this most important enter- 
prise. Thou hast but to indicate thy needs to gain 
whatever of light I can furnish.” 

thank you, heartily, good father, for such 


A PURPOSE AND A PLOT. 301 

assurance, and will not hesitate to draw, as well 
beseems me, from your treasury of wisdom. Let us 
at once address ourselves to the work of perfecting 
some plan of action that will best accord with my 
design.” 

To this Volkmer, of course, readily assented, and 
forthwith the schemers gave themselves fully to the 
task in hand. 


CHAPTER XXIV. 


A STARTLING DISCLOSURE. 

R udolph ROSENFELDT remained at Valen- 
ciennes until his engagement with Diefenbach 
necessitated a temporary return to Antwerp. But he 
had waited long enough at the former place to receive 
another communication from Christina, in which, 
however, she could give nothing further concerning 
the baron’s intentions m regard to her disposal. It 
was, therefore, in a condition of deep suspense, per- 
turbation, and solicitude, that his journey was effected. 
On reaching the little hostelry, he ‘ was soon made 
aware that no one had inquired for him during his 
absence. This was a test of his patience. He had 
hoped that Diefenbach had anticipated his coming, 
and, though not remaining, had left directions as to 
where he might be found. Besides, he deemed it 
not impossible that father Volkmer should appear 
there with some encouraging reports from Rosen- 
feldt castle. Being disappointed in both regards, and 
with Christina’s fate hanging in the balance, he 
could scarcely be censured for yielding to the depress- 
ing influence of his anxiety and his fears. 

Rudolph waited until the end of the second day 
before any substantial relief to his suspense appeared. 
Then, on responding to a rap at his room door, 
(302) 


A STARTLmG DISCLOSURE. 303 

father Volkmer confronted him. Clasping his hands 
eagerly, the young man drew him within, closed the 
door, and then, with tears welling into his eyes, 
said : 

‘‘ Welcome, thrice welcome, good father ! I have 
longed and even prayed for your advent, though I 
confess that my expectations were centered, for the 
most part, on the coming of another, who, as in your 
own case, I very much desire to meet.” 

Right glad am I, good seignior Rudolph, that I 
have come hither so soon, since I thus render thee so 
much satisfaction ; and I would that he to whom 
thou referest were, also, at hand to increase thy joy, 
albeit I know not who may be meant. ’ ’ 

But you shall know,” said Rudolph, quickly. 
‘‘It is my friend seignior Diefenbach. Yet I do not 
deem his delay in presenting himself as any fault of 
his. Some untoward circumstance must have forced 
his detention elsewhere. But you must not deem, 
good father, that my pleasure at your advent suffers 
in the least because he is still away.” 

‘ ‘ I trust not, son ; though well assured am I that 
it is the news thou art expecting through me, which 
causes much, and, doubtless, most of thy satisfaction 
at my appearance. Thou wouldst indjsed reveal but 
slight affinity to thy home friends were such not the 
case.” 

“I grant you, my dear father Volkmer, that you 
have thus fully portrayed my feelings. Yet, with that 
understood, I would have you know that my best 
estimate of your friendship for me cannot exceed your 


304 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

deserts, and, I would fain believe, the love I truly 
entertain for you.” 

* ‘ Nay, friend Rudolph, such words are not needed 
to strengthen my belief that I am properly esteemed 
by thee. And, having thus measured our mutual 
regards, let us speak of those interests which lie still 
deeper in thy heart. I will say, first, that since we 
parted at Coblentz, I have had another conference 
with thy parents, and it pleases me much to be the 
bearer of good tidings from them to thee.” 

“ Say you so, good father ? ” cried Rudolph, leap- 
ing to his feet. 

Ay, verily.” 

And of what nature ? ” 

** Such as will encourage thee, but not fill the 
measure of thy utmost hopes respecting them.” 

They are, at least, satisfied to have me retain 
my new faith ? ’ ’ eagerly came the questioning re- 
sponse. 

‘ ‘ Nay, it were better to say that they are resigned 
to the course thou hast taken; though it must be 
acknowledged that thy mother, the countess, covertly 
expresses some pleasure because thou hast disavowed 
the old faith, and, I verily believe, she herself has 
drifted in no slight degree therefrom.” 

The blessed Trinity be praised ! ” exclaimed the 
youth, as the tears trickled from his eyes. 

^^A pest on thee, thou inconsiderate heretic!” 
came from the monk in a smothered and, seemingly, 
offended tone. ** Thou ventest thy exuberant joy in 
my presence at matters which must, perforce, decrease 


A STARTLING DISCLOSURE, 305 

the power of Rome, as if I myself were the most 
violent Protestant at large.” 

I pr’ythee, good father, pardon this inconsider- 
ate display, since my overwrought sensibilities have 
rendered me peculiarly impressible to the cheering 
tidings you have so kindly brought. I do indeed 
acknowledge your loyalty to Rome, though I deem 
you not blinded to her defects.” 

Well, well; though thou art not incorrigible, 
thou art, also, not, as I take it, yet well pruned. 
School thyself, I admonish thee, so that thy demeanor 
will better accord with the preferences of those into 
whose company thou art cast.” 

Thus saying, Volkmer made no further show of 
displeasure, but instantly returned to the subject for 
the moment laid aside. 

I have further to inform thee,” he said, that 
thy father counsels thy continued absence from home, 
while averring that thy rights to his estates and titles 
shall remain intact, and that he will supply thee with 
funds, as thou mayest require.” 

*‘You continually lift me from the darkness 
wherein I was plunged, good father,” said Rudolph, 
repressing another outburst of feeling. ‘‘Yet, hard 
to be satisfied, as you may deem me, I fain would 
know his present views concerning the baron Schwarz- 
berg’s cruel dealings with me. 

“I can say but little thereof, since he divulged 
nothing definite. Nevertheless, I am persuaded that 
he is not disposed to leave the matter in its present 
state. But, observe, thou art strictly commanded by 

20 


3 o 6 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


him to hold all I have communicated to thee, touch- 
ing himself, to the strictest secrecy. If thou dost 
not, thy worst estate, I opine, hath not yet been 
reached.” 

^ ‘ It shall be locked in my heart, I assure you, good 
father ; and I would that it were in my power to repay 
you for your faithfulness in my behalf by something 
more substantial than mere grateful expressions,” 
replied Rudolph, evincing deep feeling. 

Nay, enough of that. I have something more 
urgent to lay before thee. Thou seest me now fresh 
from Valenciennes.” 

** What say you ! ” exclaimed the youth. 

*‘Ah, I knew thou wert not expecting such an 
announcement.” 

** And saw you Christina? ” 

I did. She was the last to bid me God-speed as 
I left Schwarzberg's abode. The baron I saw also ; 
and thou needst not inform me of thy adventure 
there, since they both fully acquainted me with the 
facts as they viewed them.” 

Gained you any light respecting the baron's dis- 
position of Christina ? I am deeply solicitous regard- 
ing her plight, as two messages I received from her 
subsequent to our interview, indicated that she appre- 
hended some treatment from her father of more than 
ordinary severity.” 

‘‘Verily, yes. I am, fortunately, conversant with 
the case on both sides. Christina’s life depends, 
according to the baron’s scheme, upon her complete 


A STARTLING DISCLOSURE. 307 


return to the creed of ^Holy Mother Church/ 
from which she has strayed in no slight degree." 

<*Alas! what shall I do?" cried Rudolph, in 
smothered tones. ** This news is the very essence 
of torture. I must fly to her rescue with all possible 
dispatch ! " 

‘‘Nay, calm thyself, young seignior. Such speed 
would well accord with both thine own and her 
necessities, were these extreme. But there is ample 
time in which to move. I am so thoroughly in league 
with the baron, at least, in his estimation, that he has 
yielded, from the first, full compliance to my coun- 
sels, and they have been of such a nature that the 
execution of his design is deferred for the space of a 
full week from the night now at hand." 

“Yet he may change his mind, and act in your 
absence, good father," said Rudolph, whose fears had 
only been partially allayed by Volkmer’s statement. 

“ Fear thou not, my son. He will do no such 
thing. I have him upon another scheme of mine to 
which he is even more closely wedded than to that 
touching his daughter’s disposal." 

Volkmer spoke with so much assurance that 
Rudolph’s uneasiness was almost wholly overcome 
thereby, while his curiosity became aroused. 

“ I cannot surmise what such a scheme could be," 
he said, looking inquiringly at the monk. 

“And thou shalt not know at this present," was 
responded in a pleasant way. “Be satisfied that 
Christina will be safe until the time I indicated, and 


308 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


that thou then wilt be enabled to aid her beyond what 
thou now deemest possible.” 

Have you indeed planned for her escape?” 
asked the young man, quickly. 

Faith, not I. I have knowledge of no one at 
Valenciennes, save a half dozen, or so, of my own 
order. And it behooves me not to trust strangers. 
Even here at Antwerp it might be difficult for me to 
procure assistance, though that might I do in an emerg- 
ency. But since thou hast spoken of this friend of 
thine whom thou expectest, I have bethought me that 
he might render thee good service in such enterprise.” 

I doubt not that he would do so, father Volkmer, 
should his time permit. But such consideration, is 
added to several others, to wit : that he may not reach 
here until too late ; that he may not deem it prudent 
for him to interfere in a matter relating so closely to 
the Church, considering that he cares nothing for 
creeds j and that he may deem my request as a pre- 
sumptuous one in view of the kindnesses I have already 
received at his hands.” 

Has he then befriended thee so much?” 

Verily, I think he has.” 

Wherein ? ” pursued the monk. 

Rudolph outlined the history of his association 
with Diefenbach. 

Truth to tell, young seignior, I fail to discover, in 
this thou hast told me, wherein he has placed thee 
under obligation to him. Nay, more, I deem that he 
is rather thy debtor, since thou mayest have saved his 
life by disclosing the Spaniard’s intent, and didst, by 


A STARTLING DISCLOSURE. 309 

thy evidence — ^before what court thou hast not shown 
— assist him to dispose of his enemy to his liking." 

‘*Nay, good father, you do not thus weaken my 
affection for him.” 

‘^Nor would I. My intent was to show that thy 
excuse was not well founded, and that it should not 
obtrude itself under circumstances so grave and exact- 
ing.” 

I will not fail to seek his aid, if he present him- 
self in time, father Volkmer,” replied Rudolph. 
**But I must have knowledge of what needs to be 
done.” 

And so thou shalt.” 

Saying this, the monk gave him a minute descrip- 
tion of the plan he and Schwarzberg had decided 
upon, and of the way in which it must be met and 
defeated. Rudolph was careful to note every detail, 
so that when the rehearsal was ended, he was sure 
that, with proper assistance, he could secure Chris- 
tina's release. But how to save her from further 
molestation, was a problem yet unsolved. Volkmer, 
on being appealed to, deigned him no satisfaction, 
and left the case to the young man’s discretion. 

It was now growing dark, and the monk, pleading 
business in another portion of the city, arose to leave. 
Rudolph vainly urged him to lodge in his apartments 
for the night, and, after an exchange of farewells, 
they separated with the understanding that they might 
not meet again until the event just discussed should 
take place. 

Rudolph, now, more than hitherto, prayed for 


310 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Wolfgang’s appearance. His desires were soon to be 
realized. Just at the hour of noon on the following 
day, his friend, accompanied by another person, 
entered the hostelry. Diefenbach’s inquiry for the 
young seignior, was immediately responded to by his 
being escorted to Rudolph’s room, his companion 
remaining below. The young man’s expressions of 
gratification, in this case, were fully equal to those 
accorded to Volkmer. Diefenbach reciprocated in 
fitting terms, and then stated that, as matters of im- 
portance were urging him, their present interview 
must be a brief one. 

Then will I acquaint you at once with what, to 
me, is of most absorbing interest, and which renders 
all my other plans of secondary account.” 

‘ ‘ Marry, you surprise me, good Rudolph. Delay 
not your recital,” said Wolfgang, assuming a listen- 
ing attitude. 

All the salient points of Volkmer’ s story, and his 
own adventure was now repeated by the young man, 
who, on concluding, besought his friend to indicate, 
if he possibly could, in what way aid might be 
obtained. 

“ It would please me much,” he continued, *‘if 
you could yourself accompany me thither. May it 
not be so arranged ? ’ ’ 

Alack; thou knowest, friend Rudolph, how 
gladly I would grasp this opportunity to render you 
such service. But I am pushing with all speed for 
Leyden on business of great import, and only my 
promise to meet you here at Antwerp, has prevented 


A STARTLING DISCLOSURE. 31 1 


me from taking a much shorter course to reach my 
destination.** 

This is indeed an unfortunate strait,*’ said 
Rudolph, in a desponding tone. 

“ Let my answer not dishearten you, young seig- 
nior, for, while I may not assist you in person, it 
may be possible for me to do so by my influence. I 
have a friend who spends much of his time in Ant- 
werp — a bold, dashing, reckless fellow — who, if he 
be now in the city, I may prevail upon to do all, and 
even more for you, than could I myself.” 

** Say you so? ” questioned Rudolph, eagerly. 

But will he act with prudence, and can he enlist 
several others in my behalf? ” 

As for his prudence,” said Wolfgang, he will 
use it until he imagines that something else will better 
serve his turn, though I think it will not forsake him 
in an emergency like this we speak of. Concerning 
additional help, that you may count upon, if his own 
can be procured. If you will pardon my absence for 
a half hour or so, I will ascertain if he can be relied 
upon.” 

Please do so, by all means,” came from the 
young man, quickly. 

Wolfgang departed, and returned within thirty 
minutes accompanied by Brederode, whose name has 
become familiar to students of Netherland history, 
principally because of his connection with the famous 
‘‘Beggar's League.’* Wolfgang had already ac- 
quainted him with the nature of the enterprise he 
was desired to aid, and had so far enlisted his interest 


312 


RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


therein as to cause him to make this call upon 
Rudolph. ■ A consultation now ensued which ended 
in Brederode’s giving his pledge that he would him- 
self assist in the rescue and associate a number of 
reliable persons with him. In making these arrange- 
ments, Volkmer’s name was withheld, as Rudolph 
was averse to compromising the influence of one who 
had done him so much good service. Before separat- 
ing, Brederode and he decided upon a plan for their 
journey to Valenciennes. Shortly after the former 
left the hostelry, Wolfgang also took his departure 
with the person who had accompanied him thither. 


CHAPTER XXV. 


HOW TO OBTAIN WITNESSES. 

T he terrible punishment Schwarzberg had select- 
ed for Christina, should she persist in the 
course she was taking, had been employed many 
years and even centuries prior to that time by the 
Church of Rome in cases where nuns, especially, 
refused to comply with her requisitions. The culprit 
was quietly conducted to some obscure recess of a 
church or castle ; compelled to take a position in a 
corner, or a niche, if there were such ; and was then 
deliberately masoned up so closely as to prevent 
nourishment of any kind, or even the air from reach-* 
ing her, and left to her fate. Volkmer, it has been 
seen, shrank from such a proposed procedure with 
instinctive horror ; and only the expectation that he 
could arrange for her rescue without compromising 
himself with Schwarzberg caused him, without protest, 
to permit the latter to undertake the execution of his 
design. So revolting was such punishment to his 
thought, that he deemed it unwise to acquaint 
Rudolph with its character, fearing that his so doing 
would so excite his young friend’s feelings as to defeat 
the object he would certainly seek to accomplish — 
Christina’s salvation from the ordeal. Nor was the 
lady herself led to surmise, in the least degree, the 

C313) 


314 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


lot that awaited her. If ever the monk blessed him- 
self for being in a position to thwart an inhuman deed, 
it was at that time. 

On the second day after his interview with Rudolph 
he was again en route for Valenciennes, where he at 
length arrived. His first consultation with the baron 
had reference to the details of the plot in hand. It 
had been considered prudent to refer its execution to 
a half dozen of the Jesuitical brethren in the city, and 
in order to secure an interview with them under cover, 
as Volkmer was careful to suggest, of strict secrecy, 
he invited Schwarzberg to accompany him to a mon- 
astery not far from his abode. They proceeded 
thither, when the monk, excusing himself for the 
purpose, as he averred, of seeking the brethren alluded 
to, passed alone into an adjoining apartment. Fifteen 
minutes afterwards, he reappeared, and, on stating 
'that the Jesuits would be at leisure ere long, invited 
Schwarzberg to another part of the building. The 
room they were now in was somewhat dimly lighted, 
and one of the side walls contained several grated 
openings a few inches in diameter, midway between 
the floor and the ceiling. Beneath these was a long 
wooden settle, to which Volkmer led the way. When 
they were seated, he immediately opened a conversa- 
tion which he soon directed to the scheme he had 
suggested to Schwarzberg for purloining the funds of 
the Church. 

Now, the monk was sure that his bait had been 
cast into the right stream, and that the baron had 
swallowed it with avidity. As may be conjectured. 


HOIV TO OBTAIN WITNESSES, 315 


he now found him very willing still further to con- 
sider his proposition. 

“ What sum hast thou in thy keeping, noble 
Schwarzberg? ” he at length inquired. 

“ The value of about twenty thousand thalers, two- 
thirds of which is in good solid gold," said the 
baron. 

“ And all of it secured in thy house at Antwerp, 
yet not impossible of access to such as would not 
hesitate to possess it by whatsoever means promised 
escape therewith?" pursued Volkmer. 

*• ‘ Marry, good father, it would not be impossible 
for clever plunderers to burrow their way thereto, not- 
withstanding there be some obstacles to surmount that 
might sorely test their skill. Yet a show of negligence 
on the part of my servants who remain there would 
greatly assist our enterprise." 

‘‘Yes, truly," said Volkmer, revealing deep inter- 
est. “ And thou couldst also make a showing of 
violence used by the nefarious rascals in removing 
the obstructions hinted at. But pr’ythee, how much 
wilt thou accord me for suggesting this method for ob- 
taining a partial reward for thy fidelity to Rome ? " 

“ Faith, you shall not go empty-handed, I warrant 
you, good Volkmer. Yet must I say that the idea of ap- 
propriating some of the funds was in my mind ere you 
broached it ; and it may be that I would have pur- 
sued such a course unswayed by your counsels." 

“Fear not that I desire to share thy well-earned 
dues, worthy baron," said the monk, with a most as- 
suring smile. “I did but jest with thee. For my- 


3i6 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


self, being wedded to the Church, I have but little use 
for lucre. But to such as thou, whose every interest 
is subordinate to our holy religion, it is of value, and 
will surely find its way back, through various channels, 
into the sacred coffers ; and in largely increased vol- 
umes, as I opine. We will postpone further discourse 
relative to thy project, for I mind me that the breth- 
ren may now be prepared for our conference con- 
cerning Christina. I will at once ascertain.” 

Volkmer again left the baron alone. On passing 
from the apartment, carefully closing the door behind 
him, he stepped to the entrance of the adjoining room 
just as three monks, wearing the habit of his own or- 
der, were, apparently, about to make their exit there- 
from. A previous understanding, evidently existed 
between him and them, for, without a word being 
uttered, they all moved to the end of the long hall in 
which they had met and entered another chamber. 

‘‘You heard?” questioned Volkmer, after they 
were closeted. 

“Every word, good Volkmer,” replied one of the 
three. “Verily, could I believe in the doctrine of 
the transmigration of souls, I should deem that thy 
previous condition had been that of a fox. Thou hast 
well woven thy leashes about him.” 

“Faith, I thank thee for so much regard, brother. 
But I opine that it was his estimate of my good-will for 
him, and not my wits that has wrought the success 
you speak of. And, good brethren, I have but to 
thank you for this compliance, and, also, for your 
willingness to constitute yourselves, as you have done, 


HOJV TO OBTAIN WITNESSES. 317 

competent witnesses of the baron Schwarzberg’s mis- 
chievous intent.” 

‘^Nay, good Volkmer, such was our rightful service 
to the Church.” 

** That is, indeed, true. And while you are averse 
to purloining her treasures as your reward, as he is 
eager to do, you deserve the gratitude of such as may 
be cognizant of your fidelity. Have I your leave now 
to depart, since I am engaged for another conference 
which requires my immediate attendance ? ’ ’ 

‘‘Assuredly, yes; and may the benizons of the 
saints be upon thee.” 

Five minutes later, Volkmer and Schwarzberg were 
closeted with Jesuits in another part of the monas- 
tery. 

At the end of another hour, all the details pertain- 
ing to their proposed dealings with Christina were 
arranged. It was understood that Volkmer with two 
of the six Jesuits interested should occupy the con- 
veyance to be used, with the condemned girl, and that 
the remaining four should await their appearance at a 
designated spot just beyond the city, while the baron, 
contrary to Volkmer’s wish not to have him take 
any part, was to be at the place where the final acts 
were to be performed. 

Four days still intervened before the night selected 
would arrive. Volkmer spent many of the hours of 
these at Schwarzberg’s residence, dividing his atten- 
tion between him and Christina. In his interview 
with the young lady the monk revealed the fact that 
he was to be subjected to some very harsh treatment 


3i8 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


should her father’s plans be consummated, though he 
coupled the revelation with the assertion that her 
rescue therefrom would probably be effected. This 
indeed left her with a wide margin for doubt. Nev- 
ertheless, she reposed such confidence in her father 
confessor, that she seemed not greatly disturbed by her 
prospective situation. Father Volkmer, she argued, 
would not deceive her. Within the past month, so 
much of trickery and cruelty, perpetrated by Church 
dignitaries, had come to her knowledge, that she was 
inclined, after all, to give’ Volkmer as much credit for 
honesty as she was willing, as a rule, to bestow upon 
those who clung to the faith of “ Mother Church ” with 
unyielding tenacity; and there was one thing of 
which she felt assured : whatever else the monk real- 
ly was, he was both her own and Rudolph’s friend. 
She mistrusted that this interference was primarily due 
to another cause than that of mere friendship. Thus 
considering, Christina, while not endorsing the de- 
ceptions, felt that she would, and must still rely upon 
the good offices of the deceiver. 

Early on the morning of the last day, Rudolph 
entered Valenciennes wearing the disguise he had 
adopted subsequent to his contact with the baron. 
Brederode and his companions had journeyed with 
him until near the city. As Brederode was so well 
known in the southern cities of the Netherland 
provinces, he deemed it advisable not to risk defeat- 
ing the object in view by showing himself to friends 
who would, doubtless, gather around and follow him 
wherever he went. He might, indeed, have disguised 


TO OBTAIN WITNESSES. 319 


himself as Rudolph had done. But he belonged to 
that class who fear nothing and dare everything that 
does not promise certain destruction to the offender. 

As Rudolph and Volkmer had arranged to meet 
each other at a given place early in the day, the 
former, after breaking his fast, repaired thither, and 
waited until the monk appeared. The particulars in 
regard to the transfer of Christina were now made 
known to the young man, and his preparations, in 
turn, revealed to Volkmer. The latter was sure that 
success would result to them. But Rudolph was not 
so sanguine. He was too deeply interested not to fear 
that some untoward circumstance, though but slight, 
might cause their scheme to miscarry. When they 
separated, this feeling was not entirely dissipated, 
notwithstanding the monk did his best to overcome it. 

The designated time at length arrived, and 
Rudolph set forth. A half hour brought him to the 
rendezvous where the others awaited his advent. He 
soon made them aware of the particulars of the 
arrangements as Volkmer had stated them, when 
they proceeded to adjust their own part of the plot. 
Rudolph was strenuous in urging that no blood be 
shed, if it could be avoided and the prisoner released. 
But he would not scruple at that being done, if neces- 
sary to accomplish the end sought. Brederode 
promised that his desire should be respected. Never- 
theless, Rudolph was somewhat nervous over the 
matter, as the ex-^^ beggar’s ” reputation was such that 
he questioned whether or not his stock of prudence 
would prove equal to the needs of the hour. He 


320 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


heartily wished that Diefenbach himself could have 
attended him. But he was obliged to make the best 
of existing conditions and use his utmost endeavor to 
secure a favorable result. 


CHAPTER XXVI. 


A STRUGGLE FOR A LIFE. 

V ALENCIENNES, at the date of this story, was, 
as is well known, a city within the province of 
Hainault, then entirely included in the Netherlands, 
but now divided between Belgium and France. The 
city, at that time, was located but a few miles beyond 
the frontier of the latter country. It was a well forti- 
fied place, and separated into two parts by the river 
Scheldt. 

Something over four miles in an easterly direction 
from the city there stood an old church, not then 
used, and slowly falling into decay. This church had 
been erected in an early age of the Roman hierarchy 
in what was then a quite extensive hamlet ; but the 
many subsequent wars that left their sad effects on 
that section of the continent had gradually diminished 
the number of inhabitants of which the hamlet could 
formerly boast, until, at length, there was nothing but 
ruins to indicate what it once had been. 

The interior of the edifice noted had suffered to a 
much greater extent than its exterior. Scarcely a 
piece of wood that could be detached had escaped the 
hands of the sacrilegious plunderer, while, at some 
points, the solid stone partitions and archways had 
been thrown down, either through mere wantonness, 

(321) 


21 


322 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


or to use the material for other purposes. Below the 
ground level of the structure there were to be found 
subterranean apartments, not unlike cells, and often 
but little larger. This was a feature of most of the 
churches built in the middle ages. The place was, 
therefore, quite well adapted to any nefarious purpose, 
and not infrequently became the scene of deeds 
which would not brook the light of day. 

Now, this spot had been selected by Schwarzberg 
and those acting with him for accomplishing his 
designs against Christina. Any ordinary procedure, 
even though it resulted in death to its victim, might 
have been safely conducted within the city. But this 
was a relic of the barbarous past, and needed to be 
very carefully guarded if its perpetrators would not 
endanger their own lives. 

Midway between the city and the church, the road 
leading to its locality passed over a long and quite 
steep hill, and was wooded on either side. It was at 
this point that Rudolph and his assistants designed to 
effect Christina’s rescue. Accordingly, as the dark- 
ness began to gather, they left their rendezvous and 
proceeded slowly, by an unfrequented way, to the 
designated place. Scarcely had they secreted them- 
selves near the roadside, when a horseman passed by 
at quite a rapid gait. Though but the outline of his 
form was traceable, Rudolph was certain that it was 
the baron. He was correct. Schwarzberg ’s object 
in thus preceding the conveyance was, first, to assure 
himself that the way was clear, and, secondly, to 


A STRUGGLE FOR A LIFE. 


323 

ascertain if full preparations had been made at the 
church. 

An hour rolled away ; but the conveyance failed to 
appear. Rudolph, who had grown more anxious 
since leaving the city, now began to fear that some 
other way to reach the church had been decided 
upon, and whispered his apprehension to Brederode. 
But the latter did not share the feeling. It was easy 
to conceive reasons that would warrant the delay, 
even though the time specified had been greatly 
exceeded. This, while silencing the young man for 
a space, failed to give him satisfaction ; so that at the 
end of the next thirty minutes, being still disap- 
pointed, he was wrought up to a condition of forebod- 
ings, which promised to interfere seriously with his 
movements when the exercise of caution would be 
most required. He now expressed his certain con- 
viction that another course had been pursued, and 
that they should repair with all speed to the church, 
and effect the rescue, if it were not already too late to 
do so. Brederode scarcely knew how to answer him. 
Volkmer and he were unknown to each other, and he 
was, therefore, unable to form an opinion as to how 
far the monk could be trusted. He could only accept 
Rudolph’s assurance in relation thereto. But that 
the delay had now become tedious and calculated to 
awaken suspicion, he was ready to concede, since it 
was three quarters of an hour beyond the time spec- 
ified by Volkmer for the conveyance to appear. They 
were not, however, to be disappointed. For while 
they were yet discussing the situation and, indeed. 


324 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


had about concluded to hasten to the church, the 
carriage, with two of the Jesuits plodding before and 
two behind it, came in ^ight. Volkmer who, with 
the prisoner and one of the remaining Jesuits, was 
within, covertly bestowed his attention to either side 
of the way, and was quick to detect the first move- 
ment of Rudolph and his companions toward them. 
Instantly, he ordered the last of the Jesuits who had 
assumed the role of driver for the occasion, to quicken 
his speed. But before this could be done those who 
had been in waiting were upon them. 

Now, Rudolph’s fears respecting the success of this 
adventure, were mainly based upon contingencies 
which might arise before the actual contact took 
place. He had very little doubt of rescuing Chris- 
tina, should nothing previously intervene. But he 
had miscalculated somewhat regarding the facility 
with which the rescue could be accomplished. His 
supposition, as was also that of Brederode and the 
two he had brought with him, was that they were to 
contend with unarmed men, because they all belonged 
to churchly orders. Even Volkmer himself had not 
expected that the Jesuits would carry weapons. .The 
assailants were, however, soon disabused of this idea. 
Brederode, according to arrangement, urged his 
steed immediately in front of the leading Jesuits and 
ordered a general halt. 

*‘What designest thou?” came from one of the 
vanguard. 

‘‘To defeat your hellish purpose respecting the lady 
you have in charge.” 


A STRUGGLE FOR A LIFE. 32$ 

Nay, thou art an idle prater. There is no evil 
purpose with us. Besides, thou interferest with the 
most sacred prerogatives of the Church in thus dis- 
puting our progress. Get thee hence with thy sickly 
mandates.” 

Your words might well befit the lips of his holi- 
ness,” said Brederode. Yet, were you verily him- 
self, you should submit to my command.” 

** An ill-favored cur art thou,” exclaimed the Jesuit, 
now thoroughly irritated, and drawing a short sword 
from beneath his habit. 

By this time Rudolph and the remaining two 
assailants had distributed themselves around the con- 
veyance, and at the word ‘ ‘ draw ’ ’ from Brederode, 
unsheathed their weapons. The other five Jesuits 
also acted upon the order, displaying swords similar 
to the one noted above. And, now, a struggle 
characterized by much energy and some skill, ensued. 
The Jesuits, seemingly not afflicted by a conscien- 
tious regard for the well-being of their antagonists, 
plied their efforts most vigorously, while the latter, at 
the first, endeavored, in compliance with Rudolph’s 
desire, to secure the prisoner without bodily injury 
to anyone. But this course was soon found to be 
inadequate, if they would accomplish their purpose. 
And, so, from merely defending themselves, they 
set to in right good earnest, to save Christina, let 
who must go under. The affray was somewhat pro- 
tracted ; but after one half of the Jesuitical party had 
been variously wounded, resulted in favor of the assail- 
ants. During its progress, father Volkmer seemed in 


326 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


a perfect stress of agony, and deprecated his want 
of any means of defence. But he did what he 
deemed the next best things — wrung his hands in the 
most approved style ; besought the aid of the saints ; 
and called wildly upon the assailants to desist, if they 
loved mercy and hoped for salvation in the next 
world. He, also, as Christina was lifted from the con- 
veyance, made a feeble attempt at interference ; but, 
at a menace from Brederode, tell back into his seat. 

Having accomplished their object, the rescuers 
turned to depart. As they did so, the ex-** beggar,” 
addressing the discomfited Jesuits, said : 

** Be good enough to request your baron Schwarz- 
berg to forward his thanks to us for relieving him from 
a most unpleasant duty, inasmuch as many leagues 
have been traversed in order thus to favor him.” 

** Beshrew thy impudence, thou heretical butcher ! ” 
cried Volkmer from within the conveyance. 

The next moment Rudolph and his associates were 
speeding in the direction of Valenciennes. 

The sound of their horses’ hoofs were still within 
hearing when Schwarzberg himself dashed up. He 
had waited at the church until his patience had become 
exhausted, and then hastened back to learn the cause 
of the delay. 

** What is the reason of this unseemly plight? ” he 
inquired, partially comprehending the condition of 
things at a glance. 

** Alas ! noble baron, we have been most woe- 
fully assailed,” answered Volkmer, descending from 
the carriage. 


A STRUGGLE FOR A LIFE. 


327 

Assailed ! By whom? ” came quickly from the 
baron. 

Faith, that is a matter for conjecture ; and I have 
mine,’' replied the monk. 

‘*Mean you the miscreant Rudolph?” 

‘ ‘ Ay, marry, do I, aided by a score or less of his 
ilk.” . 

“ And Christina?” cried Schwarzberg, peering into 
the conveyance. 

** Alack ! stolen outright and beyond the hope of 
recovery, I fear me.” 

** May they be flayed alive ! ” came, from the 
baron’s clenched teeth. 

“ Amen ! if they can but be caught,” said Volk- 
mer. 

“ Which direction took they ? ” 

Toward the city, as I deem.” 

We must pursue them and regain the wench. 
Mount you one of the horses, good father, and let 
one of these brethren take the other. They must not 
escape.” 

Nay, nay, good baron,” cried one of the Jesuits; 
* ‘ let not thy religious zeal outstrip thy excellent 
judgment.” 

“He counsels thee well, noble Schwarzberg,” 
added Volkmer. “ They will ride fast and far who 
overtake Rudolph of Rosenfeldt, if it be indeed he 
whom we encountered. And, might every limb of 
us do so, it would but supplement one disaster with 
another.” 


328 RUDOLPH OF ROSEN FELDT 


*‘What! is there no recourse available?” asked 
the baron, in a dismayed ’tone. 

But one that I can conceive,” was returned. 
‘ ‘ Haste to Valenciennes and dispatch a force to scour 
the country, if haply thy daughter and her captors 
may thus be brought to answer for their nefarious 
deeds before the Church, against which they have so 
most grievously sinned.” 

Schwarzberg remained silent for a brief space, 
during which he concluded that the mode suggested 
was the only one that gave any promise of securing 
the desired result. Without further parley, therefore, 
he ordered the return, and directed those who were 
too disabled by the mel^e to walk, to make use of the 
conveyance. Five minutes later, the discomfited 
churchmen were retracing the way they had come. 

Rudolph and his associates sped on with the speed 
of an arrow. When near the city, they left the road 
they were on for one that led to Mons, some fifteen 
miles distant from Valenciennes, and continued their 
flight in that direction. Just what course, on reach- 
ing Mons, he should take, provided he effected 
Christina’s release, Rudolph had not determined. 
His design was then to consult her preference, if she 
had a choice, should this not seem to conflict with 
her safety. 

Mons was reached in about two hours, and the 
party, at Brederode’s suggestion, repaired to the 
residence of one of his friends, where they met with 
a hearty welcome and the assurance that they could 
remain as long as their necessities required. 


A STRUGGLE FOR A LIFE. 


329 


Christina, overworn by her anxiety of the past few 
weeks and the added excitement of the rescue, slept 
soundly far into the next day, and awoke greatly 
refreshed, both in spirit and body, though still appre- 
hensive concerning her own and Rudolph’s safety. 
She had suffered enough, recently, at her father’s 
hands to know that should they again fall into his 
power, they could not hope for mercy from either 
him or the Church. Just what course must be taken 
to avert such a calamity, she could not surmise, 
though willing to accept any condition that would 
secure them both against those whom they had good 
reasons to fear. Of one thing she felt convinced, which 
was that the less the time spent at Mpns, the better 
would be their chances for escape, since she believed 
that prompt and diligent efforts would be made for 
her recapture and the arrest of the entire party, not 
excepting those to whom they were then indebted for 
shelter and food. Thus thinking, she sought an 
interview with Rudolph. The young man had been 
anxiously waiting for this, and they were soon in 
consultation. 

<< Whither shall we flee, dear Rudolph?” she 
inquired, betraying her anxiety by her looks. 

I shall leave that to your discretion, Christina, pro- 
vided you dp not overlook the best means to secure 
your safety and happiness,” was replied; a thing 
which your limited knowledge of the country and 
of the resources of the Church might possibly lead 
you to do.” 


330 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


Alas ; if I were only with my mother/’ said the 
persecuted girl, beginning to weep. 

** And she is at Leyden, as you told me? ” 

She was. But, I fear me, she may have already 
started on her return to Antwerp.” 

“But since we know not that she has done so, 
dearest, to Leyden shall you go, unless, indeed, you 
otherwise elect.” 

“ Ah me, dear Rudolph, it is a long journey to 
make under fear of being surprised by those who will 
certainly seek to spy out our course.” 

“We shall prove a match for them, I opine,” said 
Rudolph, cheeringly. “ Besides, every mile north- 
ward will remove us still farther from the stronger 
influences of the Church. Then, too, it may be our 
good fortune to meet our faithful and potent friend, 
the prince of Orange, who if not now in Leyden, 
may very soon appear there. Nor would it much 
surprise me to encounter seignior Diefenbach who, a 
week ago, assured me that business was then impell- 
ing him thither. So that, with these things con- 
sidered, dearest Christina, I know of no other course 
to take which so commends itself to our favorable 
regard.” 

“ Nor do I, as concerns its final advantages. But 
the duration of our exposure is what I n^ost fear.” 

“We shall be exposed to danger, take any direc- 
tion we will. None of these southern cities can 
afford us more than a meager protection, be we as 
expert as surroundings will permit after entering 
them. At Leyden we shall find a different harbor.” 


A STRUGGLE FOR A LIFE. 


331 


“ Alack, Rudolph, your words while inspiring my 
confidence in one regard, awaken my fears in an- 
other,” said Christina, sadly. 

do not conceive your meaning,” was returned. 

It is my mother’s strong dissent to what she, like 
my father, may deem my heretical views, and, also, 
her censure therefor, which I have good reason to 
expect.” 

Dear Christina, he assured that our mothers are 
not all Margarets of Parma, or Catherines de’ Medici 
to persecute us interminably for conscience’s sake. 
My mother and your own are closely assimilated in 
disposition, and not unlike in their capacities for 
judging by merciful and unbiased methods. I have 
news concerning my own to which you shall listen 
some day, and which, I think, will both surprise and 
please you. There is not now time to bestow it.” 

Then am I assured that it is agreeable to you ? ” 
“It is truly; and that for which I am most deeply 
thankful. But I know you will content yourself to 
await a better opportunity for hearing it. How say 
you, Christina; shall we decide for Leyden?” 

“ It may be for the best so to do, since our truest 
friends may be found there,” was replied. 

“ I will confer with Brederode, without whose aid 
God only knows what would have been your fate, 
touching the best means for reaching our intended 
destination, for I doubt not that he is competent to 
give us further valuable aid.” 

“ Dearest Rudolph, have you the least inkling 
touching what my fate was to have been ? ” 


332 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


No further than that you were to be put to a severe 
test respecting your recent heretical course ; for you 
must know that the slightest departure from Rome is 
positive heresy, notwithstanding Protestantism may 
be an immeasurable distance further.” 

It may be that my life has been saved to me,” 
observed Christina. 

** Such indeed may be the truth. And now, if you 
will permit, I will seek the counsel of our friend 
Brederode.” 

Christina nodded affirmatively, and Rudolph left 
the room. 


CHAPTER XXVII. 


BREDERODE AS A COUNSELOR. 

S may be conjectured, Brederode’s advice was 



/A not sought in vain. He furnished Rudolph 
with messages of introduction to friends of his at 
various stages along the proposed journey, and agreed 
with him respecting the necessity of a thorough 
change of appearance by both Christina and himself. 
Rudolph was, indeed, already disguised. , But as the 
Jesuits had seen him, though in the light of a waning 
moon, it was possible for them to identify him in the 
event of their getting on his track. 

When the night had fairly set in, the fugitives were 
prepared to take their departure. After tendering 
their gratitude to the friends who had so greatly aided 
them, who, with Brederode and his two companions, 
declined to receive the compensation Rudolph sought 
to bestow, they entered a conveyance and were driven 
rapidly away. As Brederode and his comrades 
intended to return to Antwerp at once, it was 
arranged that they should follow the carriage that far, 
keeping a moderate distance behind. Their first 
objective point was Alost, a few miles south of Den- 
dermonde, and about twenty-five miles from Mons. 
The design was to reach Alost before morning and 
remain there until the next night, when they would 


( 333 ) 


334 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


continue as far as Antwerp on their second stage. 
They followed this plan, arriving at the latter city 
quite early in the morning, as the distance was not so 
great as that previously traversed. 

Christina spent much of the following day, when 
awake, at her room window which was sufficiently 
screened to prevent her from being readily seen. 
Though the incentive to this course was the suspicion 
that she might discover her father on the street, she 
could scarcely accept the evidence of her eyes when 
late in the afternoon, he actually appeared there 
riding his favorite steed, and, what was most unac- 
countable to her, gave the hostelry where they were 
lodged a close and somewhat prolonged scrutiny. 
Instinctively she drew back, changing her position so 
that she could watch his movements without being 
observed. When he had passed from her sight, she 
immediately summoned Rudolph to her room. He 
found her trembling like an aspen, and, becoming 
alarmed at the thought that she had become suddenly 
ill, was about to seek the aid of the hostess. But on 
learning the cause of her distress, he quieted his fears 
and, to a great extent, hers also, by showing that it 
was quite natural that the baron should come to 
Antwerp in search of his child, and that they ought 
not be surprised at seeing him at any time, though 
he confessed that the survey to which the inn had 
been subjected was hard to be accounted for in any 
other way than that their presence there was sus- 
pected by him. He was confident that their dis- 
guises could not be penetrated by even their closest 


BREDERODE AS A COUNSELOR, 335 


acquaintances, notwithstanding he deemed it prudent 
for them to get away as soon as darkness would 
permit. 

The conveyance in which they had hitherto jour- 
neyed was to proceed no farther than Antwerp ; but 
Rudolph had already engaged another to take them as 
far as Breda, where a fishing smack could easily be hired 
to land them at Rotterdam, some twenty miles further 
north by way of the Zealand Archipelago, when they 
would be within a less distance than that from 
Leyden. 

Christina set forth that evening with considerable 
trepidation. For while Rudolph had succeeded, to a 
great extent in pacifying her feelings, she was unable 
to discard the thought that her father had somehow 
gained a clue to their whereabouts and had prepared 
to intercept their further flight. But they were not 
interfered with. This, however, would not have been 
the case, had not Schwarzberg and Brederode chanced 
to meet only a short time after Christina made her 
discovery. Now, the ex- beggar” was known to 
the titled classes, far and wide, and was, in turn, 
more or less acquainted with most of those who rep- 
resented them. As regarded the baron, he, perhaps, 
was on as familiar terms with him as could be expect- 
ed ; for it must be understood that the two men dif- 
fered greatly in their views of Church polity : Brede- 
rode maintaining the views of the liberal, and 
Schwarzberg those of the ultra, or exacting class. 

But, while the former had exhibited an exceed- 
ingly daring and intrusive spirit toward his opposers. 


336 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


he possessed such a convivial, humorous nature that 
his antagonism was less obnoxious and injurious than 
that of his compeers. He was himself a count of the 
old Holland stock, and had been one of the leaders 
in the ‘‘Beggar’s League,” which was composed 
entirely of young nobles, numbering its members, at 
one time, by thousands. Brederode was one of its 
few originators. These had as their principle, if not 
sole object, the demolition of the Inquisition in the 
Netherlands. The league immediately grew to be a 
large organization, and not long after being instituted 
assumed the bold enterprise of petitioning the regent, 
Margaret, to use her influence with Philip to have 
the Inquisition abolished. Brederode, because of his 
intense interest in the matter, and his daring, was 
selected to read the petition to the regent, in the 
presence of her officers of state. This he did to the 
satisfaction of his fellow delegates, who, with himself, 
numbered three hundred. After they had left the 
palace, one of Margaret’s officers, a most rigid Cath- 
olic, denounced them as a parcel of beggars, which 
epithet they at once adopted as their title, following 
up the act by arraying themselves in the kind of gar- 
ments worn by mendicants at that day ; and, hence, 
the organization is known in history as the “ Beggar’s 
League.” 

Schwarzberg, being ostensibly a zealous supporter 
of all the institutions of the Church, was, of course, 
opposed to Brederode and his associates ; and,’ when 
in the Netherlands, which was nearly half his time, 
took an active part in defending the Inquisition, 


BREDERODE AS A COUNSELOR. 337 


though not attaining to such prominence among the 
loyalists as his young opponent did among the dis- 
senters. The two had often indulged in verbal con- 
tests together; but, though these, at times, were 
somewhat acrimonious they always ended in well 
filled bowls of liquor, in which each pledged his 
mutual regard for the other. It is not strange, there- 
fore, that when they met, as already noticed, a famil- 
iar method of address should characterize their inter- 
course. Brederode was the first to speak, and deliv- 
ered himself as follows : 

* ‘ Good morrow, worthy baron ; whither away 
with such an aggrieved, and, I may say, rancorous 
look ? Verily, I could swear that you had just buried 
your best friend, and was about to execute your worst 
enemy.” 

This was the first intimation the baron had of the 
speaker’s presence, and, consequently, his reply was 
in a somewhat surprised tone. 

What ! you here, count ? I was not expecting to 
meet you. But then,” was added, with a faint smile, 
*<you are apt to present yourself when the least 
expected.” 

‘‘And often when least desired, perchance,” came 
from Brederode in a facetious way. 

“ Nay, I cannot vouch for that; though had I but 
now been desired to name your present whereabouts, 
I should have said Brussels, since scarcely more than 
ten days hence I was assured that you were there.” 

“ And, indeed, you were well informed, noble 
seignior ; albeit I, about that time, returned to Ant- 
22 


338 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


werp to remain, as I trusted, long enough to deem that 
I had some semblance of a home. But a sudden and 
unexpected call sent me, three days after, to Valen- 
ciennes, whence I proceeded to Mons, from there to 
Alost, which place I left last evening to find myself, 
ere the dawn of this day back in Antwerp.” 

Faith, your hasty flights might almost shame the 
carrier dove, though I myself have just fairly arrived 
from Valenciennes, and by the same route that led 
you hither.” 

Say you so? ” came from Brederode, with appar- 
ent surprise. It is singular that we met not, since 
it is like that we were in the same places at the same 
time. But, good baron, your look ere I addressed you 
but a minute ago, impressed me with the thought that 
you were the subject of some great depression of spirit. 
I fain would hope that this is not so.” 

‘ ‘ Alack, count, though it is not my wont to betray 
my feelings thus, nor yet to burden others with my 
private griefs, I have, doubtless, at this present, 
indexed my heart’s sorrow on my face, and would 
fain confide its history to the safe custody of one who 
could sympathize therewith. And, though our views 
differ touching some Church measures, yet still do we 
adhere to the faith, and might, therefore, with some 
degree of propriety seek consolation each from the 
other. ’ ’ 

“Why, you are right, worthy Schwarzberg. And 
if you deem my heart a safe depository, your tale of 
suffering, whatever it be, may enter it through my 
ears without the danger of its being ejected from my 


BREDERODE AS A COUNSELOR. 339 

lips. Though, be assured, I seek not that to which I 
have no -claim.” 

It is I who would be your debtor, count, should 
my story elicit counsel from you which would aid me 
in my plight. And since this is so, I hesitate not to 
make it known.” 

Saying this, Schwar^berg recited so much of his 
dealings with Rudolph and Christina as would make 
them appear to a Catholic of Brederode’s type, with- 
out his previous knowledge of the case, as extremely 
culpable, and himself as most forbearing and tender. 

‘‘ Verily, it is a sad showing, noble baron,” replied 
the dissembler, and I marvel not that you seek them 
sorrowing. But quite certain am I that you will not 
find them in Antwerp.” 

In good sooth, you speak with some assurance, 
worthy count,” quickly returned Schwarzberg, with a 
brightening look. 

Truly, and for the reason that I learned some- 
thing at Alost concerning a shameless brace of rene- 
gades, which I am constrained to believe are your 
daughter and her heretical lover.” 

Why so?” 

Well, I met with one who informed me to the 
effect that a conveyance was intercepted near Valen- 
ciennes; a lady taken from the hands of those in 
whose charge she was, by a half dozen armed mis- 
creants ; mounted by one of them upon his steed ; 
borne thus, followed by his comrades, to Mons, and 
thence to Alost, whence they intended to proceed to 
Brussels ; but what course was then designed, he did 


340 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


not learn. The lady and her captor were understood 
to be lovers, and it was known that the father of the 
girl, who was greatly opposed to the intimacy, was 
scouring the country in all directions to find them.” 

Belike, the story tallies well with the one I have 
just told you,” said the baron, eagerly. 

‘ ‘ And well am I convinced that they both refer to 
the same mischance, or, more properly, villainy,” ob- 
served Brederode. 

‘‘Yet have I had an inkling that the renegades are 
at a certain inn in this city.” 

“Faith, that is possible, good baron. But were it 
my own case, the knowledge I have given you would 
lead me to Brussels forthwith.” 

Brederode closely scanned Schwarzberg’s face to 
notice the effect of his words. The baron remained 
thoughtfully silent for a short time, and then said : 

“ I will to Brussels without delay, count. And if 
you could so far dispose of your time as to accom- 
pany me, it would be a favor I should not readily for- 
get.” 

“ Nay, it would gratify me to do so ; and you may 
command my services for the next three days, if you 
so desire,” replied Brederode, who believed he could 
favor the fleeing lovers better thus than in any other 
way, since he would be at hand constantly to divert 
the baron’s mind from their actual course. 

Less than an hour later, the baron, with several al- 
lies from Valenciennes, and the count were speeding 
for Brussels. 

Now, Brederode, though a reckless, daring, con- 


BREDERODE AS A COUNSELOR. 341 


vivial fellow, as has been seen, would scarcely have 
associated himself with Rudolph’s enterprise had the 
latter not been connected with a noble German fami- 
ly. And even this fact might have proved an in- 
sufficient incentive to him, were it not for the esteem 
in which he held Diefenbach, who, though a stranger 
to him until within the past two years, had attracted 
his attention and won his friendly regard by that suavity 
of manner and genial flow of spirit which he could so 
readily exhibit when he willed. Brederode would 
assist a friend, or combat a friend’s enemy as quickly 
as he would aid or defend himself. Nevertheless, he 
was, in many respects, a dangerous example for the 
young, and, because of his recklessness, a constant 
source of worriment to all who found it necessary to 
entrust him with operations of an important nature. 
As a prominent figure in the war which culminated in 
the establishment of the Dutch Republic, and which 
was speedily to be inaugurated, he was oftener censured 
and ridiculed than applauded. Had his courage and 
dash been supplemented and controlled by something 
like discipline, the Netherlanders might have boasted 
a leader whom even the prince of Orange, would 
cheerfully have consulted and honored. But then, as 
now, ardent spirits effected the injury or the destruc- 
tion of man’s best powers, when used to excess ; and 
Brederode was an excessive drinker. 

Rudolph and Christina met with no misadventure 
while completing their journey to Leyden. This, in- 
deed, was an unexpected result to the lady after recog- 
nizing her father at Antwerp. As their arrival occur- 


342 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


red between dawn and sunrise, they repaired immedi- 
ately to an inn for refreshments. Within two hours 
afterwards, they sallied forth to seek Christina’s 
mother. But as the address of the person she was 
visiting, was known to them, they found no difficul- 
ties in their way. Fortunately, the baroness had not 
yet started for Antwerp. She welcomed them both 
most heartily, without attempting to veil her surprise 
at seeing them there, and in disguise. What follow- 
ed may be conjectured. The whole history of the 
young people’s affairs since Rudolph’s return from 
Spain, was given in detail 3 resulting as will be seen 
in subsequent pages. 


CHAPTER XXVIII. 


VARIED EXPERIENCES. 

R udolph was urged to remain, during his stay- 
in the city, at the house with Christina and her 
mother. He preferred, however, to return to the 
inn, since he believed better opportunities would 
thus offer for meeting Wolfgang, and, possibly, the 
prince, though at that time, he had no idea where the 
latter was. The inn referred to, was, though respect- 
able, an unpretentious one. It had been established 
some eight or ten years before by a new-comer at Ley- 
den. This person was a German. He entered vig- 
orously into his new enterprise, treating his custom- 
ers with extreme civility, so that at the end of a year, 
he had placed his business upon a sure foundation, 
as men estimate, and at the time of Rudolph’s ap- 
pearance there, was well-conditioned, though careful, 
for some reason, not to extend his operations beyond 
the limits they had reached when the first twelve 
months had rolled away. His patrons were curious 
to learn the cause for this singular course ; but the 
only satisfaction they received was that he simply de- 
sired to gain a comfortable living without burdening 
himself with much responsibility. This came to be 
regarded by them as the truth, inasmuch as he did not 
display his name at the front, and gave no indication 

( 343 ) 


344 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


of the character of his business save what a very- 
small sign, placed over the entrance, could furnish. 
Rudolph and Christina had been taken there by the 
person who owned the conveyance which had brought 
them from Rotterdam, and between whom and mine 
host there existed a close acquaintance. 

To his city patrons, the keeper of this hostelry was 
quite reticent regarding his former life and the sec- 
tion of Germany from which he had come, though he 
would discourse with some degree of freedom on 
those points to such as were strangers in Leyden and 
designed remaining but a few hours or days, at the 
most. He was quick to learn that Rudolph would be 
a transient visitor, and, consequently, the young man 
was speedily favored as just noted. Their first con- 
versations had reference to Germany, in a general 
way, in connection with the all-absorbing topic, at 
those times, the Reformation. The host was a very 
entertaining narrator, and Rudolph sought his society 
as often as possible. Well pleased at the young 
man’s deep interest in his recitals, the host became 
more specific and treated of matters pertaining to the 
locality in which he had formerly resided, and which 
was the place of his birth. Having gone thus far, he 
questioned Rudolph touching similar matters con- 
nected with his own history. The latter spoke quite 
freely of his native place, his youth, his father’s fam- 
ily, and, finally, of his faith, incidentally mentioning 
in connection with the last topic, the name of baron 
Schwarzberg, though not revealing his interest in him 
or the lady Christina. This reference to the baron 


VARIED EXPERIENCES. 


345 


seemed to affect the host deeply. Rudolph was quick 
to notice his agitation. But, as he had no knowledge 
that the two men had ever been associated in any 
way, he was unable to refer the latter’s singular 
actions to his use of the name. The fact caused him 
but a temporary diversion of thought, and he con- 
tinued his recital to the end. 

Within the next two days, several other interviews 
occurred between Rudolph and the landlord, but it 
was not until the evening of the second that the latter 
gave him any reason to think that he was especially 
interested in the baron Schwarzberg. On this occa- 
sion he surprised his guest by abruptly inquiring if 
the baron and he were, or had been, in any way 
allied. Rudolph scarcely knew what answer to 
return. He was loth to think that the question was 
induced by a mere morbid curiosity to be informed 
of his strictly private affairs. Certainly, he felt 
unprepared to reveal them to one he had known for 
so short a time. But he could hardly reply without 
doing this, unless in a very brief way. He took the 
second course and simply said, 

‘*Yes.” 

Was your association such as to commend him to 
your kind regard ? ” 

This question, also, could be answered concisely, 
though not without veiling a portion of the truth. 
But, as particulars were not requested, Rudolph un- 
hesitatingly responded : 

** For the most part.” 

** Which might argue that you would hesitate to 


346 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


trust him with your deepest interests? " was cov- 
ertly inquired. 

Faith, it might be to my advantage not to do so,” 
came the evasive answer. 

And for important reasons, doubtless, which I 
seek not to learn,” said the host. Then, as Rudolph 
failed to respond immediately, he added the inquiry : 

Are you conversant with his earlier history? ” 

“Not with that preceding his marriage; or, in- 
deed, to any great extent, with his subsequent course 
of life, save that embraced in the last few years.” 

“ Know you into what family he married? ” 

“The name I cannot recall at this present, though 
I am assured that the house is a noble one whose 
estates are watered by the Elbe and are contiguous to 
what you have informed me is your native city. And, 
now, since you have called this fact to my mind, may 
I inquire if you know aught of him, or the family 
alluded to.” 

“My first response shall be, as was your own; 
yes,” said the host, promptly. 

“Nay, I shall quiz you no further, worthy host; 
for did I desire to compute your estimate of him, it 
might fairly be done, methinks, from several other 
questions you have been pleased to ask me.” 

“Were you disposed to put similar ones, they 
would receive answers as courteous as those you 
yourself have given,” said the host, blandly. 

“It is enough,” returned Rudolph. “Further 
probing might not be relishable.” 


VARIED EXPERIENCES. 


347 


The host smiled peculiarly. Then leaning for- 
ward and assuming a grave aspect, he said slowly : 

If you well know the baron Schwarzberg, I need 
not advise you. If you know him not, beware of 
him! ” 

The impressive tone and manner caused Rudolph 
to lean backward and survey his companion’s face 
with a look of surprise not unmixed with curiosity. 

Who is this person,” he mentally queried, who so 
well understands the man by whom I have been 
spurned and berated, that he is competent to warn 
me in such a significant way ?” Mine host seemed to 
read his thoughts, for at the end of a brief pause, he 
continued : 

You deem it remarkable that I should thus 
counsel you ; but be assured that you have been well 
apprised of danger, though you may never know my 
reason for thus speaking.” 

Saying this, he arose, apologized for retiring, and 
bowed himself out of the room. Rudolph, though 
left alone, was full of thought concerning this prob- 
lem he was utterly unable to solve. How singular it 
was, as it seemed to him, that he had been thus 
thrown in the way of one, who, doubtless, like him- 
self, though on a different line, had gained a sad 
experience through the injustice, or cruelty of the 
same individual ! He sought his couch, at length, 
with this matter so deeply imbedded in his mind that 
for a long time he could not compose himself to 
sleep. 

Leyden had been astir for several hours with its 


348 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


accustomed activities before Rudolph descended to 
break his fast on the following day. The host, con- 
trary to his rule, did not appear in the dining hall to 
greet him. Whether this was chance, or design, he 
could not tell. But he was conscious of the fact 
that his absence in person failed to render the 
influence of his words of the evening before inopera- 
tive. These still clung to Rudolph’s memory with 
unyielding tenacity. 

Having dispatched his meal, he left the inn to call 
upon Christina and her mother. The baroness had 
been so bewildered by the remarkable events of which, 
on her daughter’s arrival, she was informed, that it 
was impossible for her to render a just opinion of them 
at the time. Consequently, Rudolph was totally 
ignorant of her present regard for him, or of the esti- 
mate in which she held Christina’s course. He had 
purposely delayed his first call until now, in order that 
she might have ample time for reflection and decis- 
ion. It was, therefore, with perturbation of mind that 
he entered the house. Christina was the first to meet 
him. Her look satisfied him that he had little, if 
anything, to fear from the baroness. It was almost 
radiant with delight. Of course, several causes con- 
tributed to this appearance, but the chief one was the 
fact that her mother was, as were Rudolph’s parents, 
reconciled to their continued intimacy and projected 
marriage. Concerning the religious aspect of their 
affairs, she, at first, evinced much surprise, since 
Christina, in the only letter she had forwarded to 
Leyden subsequent to Rudolph’s return from Spain, 


VARIED EXPERIENCES. 


349 


had said not a word regarding his Protestantism, or 
the doubts that were beginning to cloud her own 
mind. This surprise, however, had been succeeded 
by unaffected interest in the recital Christina gave 
regarding his change of faith and her waning confi- 
dence in Rome. A multitude of questions from the 
baroness supplemented the story. These were, evident- 
ly, for the purpose of securing to herself an accurate 
knowledge of the nature of the new faith and its 
effects upon its possessor, rather than to learn how far 
they themselves had wandered from ‘‘Holy Mother 
Church.” Christina hid nothing that she was capable 
of communicating. But Rudolph’s experience had to 
be relied upon for the information desired, as she her- 
self was still in transitu from Rome to the Reform- 
ers. 

Whatever, at the time, may have been the con- 
victions of the baroness touching religious questions, 
she did not divulge them to her daughter ; nor had 
she done so up to the moment when Rudolph made 
his appearance. Christina, however, pretty correctly 
surmising their nature, concluded that her mother 
was no whit behind herself in felt dissatisfaction with 
the creed which had governed her past life. The 
news, therefore, with which she was prepared to greet 
her lover, was like refreshments bestowed upon a way- 
worn and hungry pilgrim. 

Rudolph left the presence of the baroness and 
Christina with feelings akin to rapture. He had the 
joy of genuine faith within him : “A well of water 
springing up unto everlasting life.’^ But besides this. 


350 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


there were indubitable evidences that Christina, his 
mother, and even the baroness Schwarzberg were 
struggling toward the true light. Indeed, he sus- 
pected that his father was becoming somewhat rest- 
less under the yoke of the Church, while all about 
him there were heart-throes, repinings, deep murmur- 
ings, and bold declarations, revealing the truthfulness 
of what, at the present day, is a proverb : The 

blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.” In 
this happy condition, he moved leisurely toward the 
inn, scarcely giving heed to anything other than his 
own thoughts. Suddenly a hand, from behind, was 
laid upon his shoulder. With a start, he turned to 
see who it was that thus interrupted his pleasing medi- 
tations, when the forms of Diefenbach and another 
person whom he did not recognize, met his look. 

Faith, seignior Rudolph, you seem to prefer 
moving from your friends instead of toward them. 
Is such discourtesy a principle of your new creed? ” 

Alack, friend that you truly are,” replied the 
young man, warmly grasping Wolfgang’s hand, 
sorry am 1 if my ruminations have given you the 
least cause to think that I could treat you indifferently 
under any circumstances, to say nothing of my pres- 
ent ones.” 

Then you are in trouble again and need my 
assistance ? ’ ’ came the quick and questioning response 
of Wolfgang. 

‘ ‘ Nay, worthy seignior, thanks be to God, this is 
the happiest day I have seen from the moment of our 
first meeting at Antwerp.” 


VARIED EXPERIENCES. 


351 


** Say you so ? ” said Diefenbach, with a brighten- 
ing look. ‘ ‘ Right glad am I to know it. And sin- 
cerely do I wish that you will never again see a more 
sorrowful one.” 

“Thanks for that which required not words to 
convey it to me,” said Rudolph, with feeling. 

“ Pardon my negligence, good seignior Rosen- 
feldt,” came quickly from Diefenbach, as it occurred 
to him that he had failed to introduce his companion to 
the young man. “ This is my very good friend Herr 
Hermann Welcker, a countryman of both you and me, 
who can boast of Magdeburg as the place of his birth, 
and of a protracted and meritorious term as a soldier 
in the service of Charles V. as his recommendation to 
the notice of all who appreciate valor and respect 
worth.” 

“A hearty welcome to you,” said Rudolph, clasp- 
ing the hand extended by his new acquaintance. “ I 
give you both a cordial invitation to my humble 
lodgment, in the hope that you will accept it.” 

“So will we do, good seignior, if such course be 
not an interference with your duties, or pleasure 
rather, judging from your own confessions,” said 
Wolfgang. 

“You will but add to it by accompanying me,” 
replied the young man. “I have cherished some 
hope of meeting you here so that I might acquaint 
you with my recent adventures, aid for which you so 
kindly furnished me at Antwerp.” 

“And which, though a small favor, proved not, I 
trust, altogether unserviceable.” 


352 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


‘‘You could not well overestimate its benefits, 
noble friend,” replied Rudolph, feelingly. “Without 
it I should have met with disastrous failure.” 

“ Right glad am I, then, that it was mine to bestow. 
But, good seignior, lead the way. Lodge you far 
hence? ” 

“ Ten minutes will find us at the hostelry, where I 
hope to introduce your friend here to a native of his 
own city.” 

“Mean you that?” asked Wolfgang, quickly, as 
he exchanged looks with his companion. “And his 
name ? ” he immediately added. 

“ Nay, I have not yet learned it,” replied Rudolph, 
noticing the interest both displayed in his words. 
“But, doubtless, we shall know it soon, since there is, 
as I suppose, no reason why he should not announce 
it.” 

Saying this, he turned, and together they proceeded 
to the hostelry, reaching it within the time specified. 

Before taking his friends to his apartment, Rudolph 
inquired for the host, but found that he was absent 
and would not return for an hour. After they were 
all comfortably disposed above stairs, Wolfgang in- 
formed the young man that Herr Welcker was well 
acquainted with the baron Schwarzberg and had good 
reasons for disliking him, and that whatever he might 
relate touching his actions would run no risk of being 
divulged. Of course, Rudolph’s curiosity was 
awakened by the first announcement, but without 
betraying it, he began his recital of the adventure 
which effected Christina’s rescue. Both his auditors 


VA RIED EXPERIENCES. 353 

seemed deeply interested, and allowed him to proceed 
to the conclusion without scarcely an interruption. 
He had barely more than finished his story, when 
there came a rap at his room door, on responding to 
which, he was met by the host. 

** You inquired for me, seignior, I understand,” he 
said, with the manner of one fully prepared to serve. 

‘ * Truly, yes. But you were away. ’ ’ 

And, as you see, have returned. Do you need 
anything ? ” 

‘‘Nothing that I deem you refer to. Yet have I 
cause for your presence here,” and Rudolph, tak- 
ing the host by the hand, and drawing him a step or 
two beyond the threshold, continued: ” I have here a 
brace of friends which ” 

“Ernest Haufmann ! ” exclaimed Herr Welcker, 
springing to his feet and starting toward the host. 

“ And you ? ” cried the host, interrogatively, evinc- 
ing equal surprise. 

“ What ! Have you forgotten the night of January 
the loth, 1547 ? ” 

Haufmann glanced first at Diefenbach, who, while 
manifesting intense interest in what was transpiring, 
gave no evidence of agitation ; then at Rudolph, 
whose looks clearly showed that he had met with the 
unexpected ; and, lastly, his eyes turned toward his 
interlocutor, at whom, for a brief space, he gazed 
with a sad, earnest look, and then said ; 

“Alas ! too well do I remember it, and yourself, 
also. You are Hermann Welcker.” 

23 


CHAPTER XXIX. 


THE PURSUER PURSUED. 


ESS than a half hour after Christina’s rescue 



from the terrible fate that awaited her, baron 


Schwarzberg and the fathers re-entered Valenciennes. 
All of them repaired immediately to the monastery 
to arrange for the despatching of a strong party in 
pursuit of the depredators and the liberated girl. 
The monks and the Jesuits could easily accomplish 
this as there was a gang in the city that was always 
ready to do their bidding at a moment’s warning. 
The ecclesiastics were accustomed to such proceed- 
ings. It not infrequently happened that some one 
whose loyalty to the Church was questioned, would 
fail to answer to their summons if required to appear 
before them, when an expedition, similar to the one 
now designed, would be instituted to coerce his pres- 
ence. Hence, in a comparatively short time, a dozen 
stalwart, well-horsed men with swords dangling at 
their sides, had left the city in search of the fugitives. 
These were divided into several squads, one of which 
was accompanied by the baron himself. 

Schwarzberg, as if guided by a natural prescience, 
led those attending him, directly to Mons ; and, had 
it not been for the disguises assumed by the lovers, 
the chances were that they would have fallen into his 


( 354 ) 


THE PURSUER PURSUED. 


355 


hands. But his efforts to discover them failed. At 
the close of the second day, however, he learned that 
a conveyance containing a man and a woman, had 
left the place early oh the previous evening in the 
direction of Alost. But a dozen such events might 
have occurred without the parties, in either case, be- 
ing the ones he sought. Nevertheless, as a doubt 
was pending, he determined to follow up this slender 
clue, though he wasted several hours more in the vain 
effort to secure more definite information ; so that 
when he and his associates entered Alost, Rudolph 
and Christina had been for some time safely sheltered 
in Antwerp. At the former city, he was more fortu- 
nate than at Mons, as almost immediately on reach- 
ing it, the knowledge was obtained that a conveyance 
resembling the one he was pursuing had started out 
the night before, taking a northeasterly course. Giv- 
ing themselves but a brief season for recuperation, 
the pursuers again mounted to their saddles and sped 
away for Antwerp, where they arrived at noon, as 
has been seen, and before the lovers left for Breda. 
In response to prompt inquiries, his attention had 
been directed to the hostelry at which they then were, 
and he had about decided to take measures for en- 
trapping them, when Brederode met him and suc- 
ceeded in changing his design, by leading him to 
Brussels. The thorough though unavailing search to 
which that city was subjected, left the baron in a 
quandary as to his next best course. But he, at 
length, returned to Antwerp ; visited the inn, before 
suspected ; learned that a couple had lodged there a 


356 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


few days previous; and had departed during the 
night ; but no one was found who could say what 
course they had taken, or by what means they had 
left the city, if, indeed, they had left at all. After 
having failed to secure the slightest clue, the baron 
directed his assistants to return to Valenciennes. 
Thoroughly indignant because of his defeat, he now 
determined to make a visit to Germany, and consult 
with the count Rosenfeldt. That the fugitives would 
attempt to make Rudolph’s home a refuge, he could 
scarcely believe, though such a thing was not impos- 
sible. For, while Volkmer had represented the count 
as altogether unimpressible to the young heretic’s ap- 
peals for clemency, he strongly intimated the actual 
feelings of the countess, and Rudolph, if aware of 
these, might presume upon her influence for securing 
protection. But, then, the manner in which he had 
cheated the Jesuits rendered even that view unwarrant- 
able. The baron was, also, not'forgetful that Leyden 
might have been the objective point. Here, again, 
arose considerations tending to discourage a decision 
to act upon the thought. Thus concluding, Schwarz- 
berg departed for Germany, leaving instructions with 
his servants for the baroness in case her return to 
Antwerp should precede his own, and giving the 
assurance that he would be back within a month. 
Besides doing these things, he despatched a message 
to Volkmer, who, he doubted not, was still at Valen- 
ciennes, to occupy and care for his establishment there 
until he came. Little did he imagine that the monk 


THE PURSUER PURSUED. 357 

had left the city within three hours after his own de- 
parture therefrom. 

Pending these various movements, a condition of 
things had obtained in Valenciennes which was be- 
ginning to attract the attention of all Europe. 
Rudolph referred to this in his first meeting there 
with Christina. But the excitement had now as- 
sumed a much more alarming aspect than appeared 
at that time. The reason for this agitation was the 
well understood design of the regent, backed by the 
Church authorities, to garrison the city with Spanish 
troops. And, while no formal demand had been 
made upon the populace to receive them, it was 
expected that this would soon be done. All classes 
of Protestants — the Reformers, the Calvinists, the 
Pedobaptists, the Huguenots — and many otherwise 
loyal Catholics, were strenuously opposed to such a 
movement. Of course, the design was to stay, and, 
if possible, destroy the influence of the Reformation. 
Heated feeling assumed control of the masses and dire 
imagination was rampant, though, as it proved, not 
in excess of the calamities that were hastening on. 
Alva, indeed, was not looked for in the Netherlands 
until spring, but there were other troops available for 
carrying out the project at any time. Though the 
opponents thereto were at fever heat, they believed 
themselves capable of defeating the measure by force 
of arms should milder means prove abortive. This 
belief strengthened to a decision to resist when early 
in the winter the demand was made for the city to 
accept the garrison. The overture being promptly 


358 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

rejected, Valenciennes was pronounced, on the 15th 
of December, to be in a state of siege. It was a 
strong, well-fortified place and the besieged were dis- 
posed to ridicule the movement. But their merri- 
ment was premature, as subsequent description will 
show. 

Two days after the event which closes the last 
chapter, Diefenbach, accompanied by Haufmann and 
Welcker, left Leyden for Antwerp, whence he in- 
tended to proceed to Valenciennes in search of 
Schwarzberg. He had, now, all the evidence needed 
for the conviction of the latter. But his first objects 
were so to control the baron’s movements as to have 
him within easy reach at all times, and to arrange 
the modus operandi for bringing him to justice. But 
he found himself non-plussed at the start. Brederode, 
upon whom he immediately called, furnished him 
with what knowledge he had of Schwarzberg’s opera- 
tions up to the time of his return from Brussels, 
whereupon, Wolfgang next repaired to the baron’s 
Antwerp residence only to learn that he had gone to 
Germany. But as the baron’s object in going thither, 
or the time he proposed to be absent, was not stated, 
Wolfgang scarcely knew just what course to take. 
That he must somehow get upon his track was ob- 
vious. This, however, might prove to be a very diffi- 
cult matter, as Germany was a large place. Never- 
theless, he at length determined, with the aid of 
Haufmann and Welcker, to institute a search for him 
there. Could the baron be found in Germany, it 
would suit his purpose as well, at least, to have him 


THE PURSUER PURSUED. 


359 


tried before the Veiled Court of Coblentz as to place 
him at the mercy of the ecclesiastics, for, it must be 
remembered that Schwarzberg’s crime of many years 
before was of a double nature — being directly against 
the State, in one regard, and against the Church in 
the other ; and, besides, committed within the Ger- 
man domain. The trio, therefore, mounted their 
steeds and sped away in the direction of the Rhine. 

There were two places in Germany which Diefen- 
bach thought Schwarzberg would be most likely to 
visit. One of these was his home estate on the Werra 
river, not far from Eisenach, and count Rosenfeldt’s 
castle on the Rhine. He resolved first to seek him 
at the former place. 

Well understanding the dislike Schwarzberg had 
for him, Wolfgang felt assured that he would seek to 
evade contact with him if he suspected his approach. 
It was, therefore, his policy to move very cautiously. 
After spending several days in manoeuvering, he was 
not a little chagrined to learn that the baron had not 
been there within the past two months. At the end 
of a week from the time of his arrival, he and his 
friends departed for castle Rosenfeldt, taking the 
most direct course possible to reach it. 

Apart from the wish to find his man, Diefenbach 
desired to gain an interview with the count, hoping 
that he might thus say something calculated to lessen 
the breach between Rudolph and his father. Though 
aware that he must be received by him as an entire 
stranger, he believed that his acquaintance with the 
young seignior and his ability to announce the lat- 


360 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

ter’s present circumstances, would be to his advan- 
tage. Here, as in the former .case, careful means 
were employed to secure information respecting 
Schwarzberg. At length it was ascertained that he 
had spent a week at the castle, but had left on the 
day previous, though his destination was unknown. 
Without further hesitancy, Diefenbach presented him- 
self at the gate and was duly admitted. The count 
received him in a befitting way, and, as he desired a 
strictly confidential interview, conducted him to his 
own private chamber. 

I have done myself the honor, noble count,” said 
Diefenbach, ‘<of thus visiting you, chiefly for the 
purpose of bestowing some knowledge concerning 
your son, the young seignior Rudolph, though, be 
assured, that he is in no degree privy to my action.” 

<‘You are welcome, seignior Diefenbach,” replied 
the count, ^‘though it may be that what you can 
communicate has been anticipated by one who but 
yesterday left my castle.” 

Verily, then am I without a proper cause for in- 
truding myself upon you,” said Wolfgang, assuming 
a surprised look. ‘‘ I am at loss to know by what 
good chance you have been thus informed, albeit I 
do not seek to learn.” 

‘‘Yet will I not hesitate to enlighten you. The 
information came directly from the baron Schwarz- 
berg, seignior.” 

“ Mean you from his own lips ? ” Wolfgang again 
feigned surprise. 

“ Marry, yes. Do you know him ?” 


THE PURSUER PURSUED. 


361 


<*We have met, worthy count,” replied Diefen- 
bach, glad that Rosenfeldt, by naming the baron, had 
opened the way for the references to him which he 
desired to make ; for well assured was he that what- 
ever communications the count had received from him 
concerning Rudolph had been of a distorted nature. 
*‘But,” he added, ‘‘I have heard so much of him 
from the young seignior, and, also, from others, that 
his recent life, especially, is fairly well known to 
me.” 

**Then, mayhap, you are not ignorant of 
Rudolph’s recent misdemeanors,” said the count, with 
a quizzical look. 

Verily, baron Rosenfeldt, if he have been guilty 
of misdemeanors, I have to avow that I have no 
knowledge of them. That he has been unfortunate, I 
am well aware. That he has been privileged to 
rescue from terrible suffering, and, perhaps, death, 
one whom he loves as his life, is also known to me.” 

<< Refer you to the baron’s daughter, Christina? 

*■ ‘ I do, truly, good count. She had well-nigh be- 
come the victim of a most malicious design conceived 
and about to have been executed by her father and a 
gang of Jesuits who aided him.” 

<‘What!” exclaimed the count. ‘‘I confess to 
some surprise at such revelation.” 

Faith, I might have expected so much, since 
you have learned from no one, as I divine, concern- 
ing Rudolph’s affairs, save the baron Schwarzberg 
himself. It would have been very unlike him had he 
wearied your ears, noble seignior, with a recital of his 


362 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 

own sins. But I opine that he berated seignior 
Rudolph, with his tongue, most soundly.” 

He did, indeed, inform me of some matters touch- 
ing my son’s conduct that I could but deem most re- 
prehensible, and I so denounced them on the hear- 
ing.” 

* ‘ Nay, good count, since you did so, I can but 
think that you heard only a portion of the facts and 
much that has no warrant in truth. Yet, as I know 
not what manner of representations he made, I can- 
not certainly aver so much.” 

**Then shall you have the opportunity to confirm 
or discard your suspicion ; for, as I greatly desire to 
know the truth, you shall be informed. The most im- 
portant of them referred to an affair that occurred near 
Valenciennes, to which city he had gone for the 
benefit of his daughter’s health. You will not deny 
that he was there, seignior Diefenbach? ” 

Marry, no; since Rudolph so assured me. But 
the reason for his going thither is another matter.” 

*‘Did he not fairly reveal it tome?” asked the 
count, quickly. 

If he did, I must deem seignior Rudolph to be 
seriously at fault, as I learned from him that the 
baron removed Christina to avert further contact be- 
tween the young seignior and her.” 

“ Speak you truly, seignior Diefenbach ? ” and the 
count’s eyes dilated as he closely scanned Wolfgang’s 
face. 

As truly as my knowledge will permit.” 

*‘What! It is passing strange that I, who have 


THE PURSUER PURSUED. 363 


known the baron Schwarzberg for these many years, 
am but now to learn that he is deceitful.” 

If he has not hitherto so revealed himself, good 
count, you have witnessed but his fairest showing. 
There be those who could portray him with the 
dunnest hues.” 

“ Be sure that you do him no injustice, seignior. I 
have esteemed him as a most unimpeachable son of the 
Church,” replied the count, with a tinge of severity 
in his tone. 

“ Nay, noble count Rosenfeldt, what motive should 
urge me to undermine your confidence in one to 
whom you have been so closely allied, save that which 
has for its basis the immovable rock of truth ? I may 
not now declare all I could state concerning him ; 
but if you seek for further knowledge respecting the 
affair at Valenciennes, you shall gain some concep- 
tion of the baron as he is. ’ ’ 

seek for verities, seignior. And you will 
pardon me for the warmth I but now revealed. But 
when one whom you have fully trusted is for the first 
time accused of falsehood to you, it is not an easy 
matter to accept the announcement in cold blood. 
And now I will to the matter alluded to. The baron 
informed me that on the evening of the last day he 
spent in Valenciennes, he and Christina, attended 
by a half dozen fathers, were proceeding to a church 
several miles from the city for the purpose of attending 
a special service. But ere they had traversed half the 
distance thither they were assailed by a number of 
armed men, who used their weapons most freely, and 


364 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


effected the injury of most of the churchmen, besides 
carrying off the young lady, but whither, no one 
could tell. The baron assured me that Rudolph led 
the assailants. His voice betrayed him, notwithstand- 
ing he was disguised. How say you, seignior; is 
this showing a correct one? ” 

‘‘As far from the truth as I hope we are from per- 
dition, noble count. And you need not marvel, in 
view of the reply you shall receive, that I am entirely 
unmoved at the recital. You shall have Rudolph’s 
own account as he furnished it to me,” and Wolf- 
gang related the event as it had come to him from 
the young man’s lips. 

To say that count Rosenfeldt was manifestly dis- 
turbed by this recital would but tamely express the 
reality. He was deeply indignant. His spirit 
seemed like the sea torn by a gale. His eyes flashed ; 
his lips quivered, his nostrils dilated ; his face grew 
livid and crimson by turns; while his respirations, 
characterized by a low gutteral sound, became wildly 
rapid, heaving his breast as though it were subject to 
a spasm of excruciating pain. Diefenbach regarded 
him closely during this exhibition with a calm, 
unperturbed countenance. Had he been less familiar 
than he was with such displays of passion, he might 
have feared that the count had suddenly been seized 
by some violent illness. But, though stranger to him, 
he understood the nature of his agitation, and was 
satisfied that there was sufficient cause for its exist- 
ence. Not until Rosenfeldt had, in a good degree, 
gained control of his emotions, did he venture again 


THE PURSUER PURSUED. 365 

to address him. Then, with a deprecating look, he 
remarked : 

It grieves me much, noble count, that the story 
I was constrained to tell, if I met your desire, was 
such as thus to stir your deepest feelings. Yet am I 
not disappointed at your being so wrought upon, since 
your only child, whose life has been bound up in 
your own, and who, whatever else may be his defects, 
is most honorable and sincere, has been thus foully 
maligned and misrepresented by one whom you have 
hitherto prized as an inestimable friend.” 

‘ Alas, seignior, it is a double blow, surely. Had 
the calumny been directed at a target less cherished 
by me, it would indeed have been freighted by no 
little pain for my own heart. But since the child of 
my loins has been thus villified and traduced to my 
face by one whom I could not divine as capable of 
deceit, was to yield my heart-strings to the torture of 
burning brands.” 

‘‘ Nay, good count, I know not at which to marvel 
most, his audacity or his crime,” responded Wolf- 
gang. 

‘‘And should he again place himself within my 
reach, he will scarcely know for which he suffers 
most.” 

“I do beseech you, count Rosenfeldt, deal not 
with him concerning such deserts until I myself have 
settled accounts with him which were justly due me 
many years agone.” 

“Have you then such a score? ” 

“ Ay, marry, have I. And I opine that there will 


366 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


be nothing save his ghost left when the score is well 
wiped out.” 

Faith, ghosts are most unsatisfactory debtors, 
seignior.” 

‘‘You are right, good count. But, bethink you, 
the Church teaches that such as he will pay to the 
last farthing of usury in the next world. As for him, 
I doubt not he has made you his creditor to a much 
greater extent than the statements I but now made 
makes him appear.” 

‘ ‘ What mean you ? ’ ’ 

“ This much. I have some inkling that the baron 
Schwarzberg dispatched to you, at the first discovery 
of seignior Rudolph’s heresy,' what he asserted to be 
a most honest representation of his dealings with him 
on the occasion of their interview at his Antwerp 
residence.” 

“Alack, I know not now how much of truth his 
message contained ; for that I received one, I will 
not deny,” came from Rosenfeldt in a pensive tone. 

“If you still hold it, it is within your power to 
judge for yourself.” 

“ By what means, signior ? ” 

‘ ‘ By the fact that I chanced to hear most of what 
discourse was had between them.” 

“ Say you so? Were you, then, present ? ” 

“ I was awaiting the baron’s leisure in an adjoining 
apartment which was separated from the one they 
temporarily occupied by a hanging that scarcely pre- 
vented their words from reaching my ears as clearly 


THE PURSUER PURSUED. 367 


as if I had been beside them. The final utterances 
and actions, I both heard and saw.” 

“ Then hold yourself at rest for a brief space, and 
I will produce the document,” and the count left 
the apartment. 

It was five minutes before Rosenfeldt returned 
bringing the message alluded to. The two seigniors 
then set about comparing notes, Wolfgang pointing 
out, so far as he averred he knew them, the false 
accusations and the omissions characterizing the docu- 
ment, and added much which he assured the count 
he had received directly from Rudolph. His repre- 
sentations materially modified the baron’s assertions, 
and led Rosenfeldt to regard his son as being quite as 
much sinned against as sinning. More than once, 
indeed, the thought came to him with force that he 
was giving a large amount of credence to the state- 
ments of one who, an hour previous, he was not 
aware of having ever met. But he overcame any ris- 
ing misgiving by the consideration that his informant 
could not have ground for deceiving him in a matter 
of that kind. 

This interview lasted for a long time. Much of 
Rudolph’s life was reviewed and commented upon. 
Wolfgang, however, was careful not to divulge the 
young seignior’s present place of abode, nor the fact 
that Christina was also at Leyden. When he took 
his departure, he was confident that the count held 
Rudolph in higher esteem than he had done at any 
time since his visit home. The conviction, also, that 
Rosenfeldt himself — though he had not so much as 


368 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


intimated such a thing — was, in some degree, subject 
to the influences of the Reformation, possessed his 
mind and gave him the assurance that the young seig- 
nior had nothing further to fear, in that direction, 
touching his recently adopted faith. 


CHAPTER XXX. 


FOUND AND LOST. 



N leaving Rosenfeldt castle, Schwarzberg decided 


V-x to visit the establishment of the prince of 
Orange, whose estate bordered on that of the count. 
When leaving Antwerp he had not intended this 
course. But it now occurred to him that the lovers 
might possibly have fled thither, deeming it a shelter 
not likely to be included in any plan for searching 
them out. Though well assured that the prince was 
not at home, he was also quite confident that such 
knowledge on Rudolph’s part would not have deterred 
him from going there, since the close friendship 
existing between William and the youth was well 
understood. The baron, however, was again doomed 
to defeat — no tidings of the fugitives rewarded his 
inquiries. 

Thus repeatedly disappointed in his pursuit, he 
resolved on a visit to Magdeburg, not as a continua- 
tion of his recent efforts, but for the purpose of 
collecting the rentals now due from the large estate 
of the baroness in that locality. This was a course 
he usually took at that season of the year, turning the 
money over to her on his return. But in the present 
instance, he decided to appropriate it to his own use. 
The baron was becoming more and more avaricious, 


24 


(369) 




370 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


and, hence, having received a hint from Volkmer as 
to how missing funds might plausibly be accounted 
for, he determined to act upon it in this case. It 
would be an easy matter to make the collections, 
hoard them in a safe place, and then represent that 
he had been plundered on the highway. To Magde- 
burg, therefore, he directed his course. He had a 
long ride before him. That city, as the bird flies, 
was nearly or quite two hundred miles from his start- 
ing point. But he had plenty of time, and con- 
sequently, the journey need not be a fatiguing one. 
The estate was at length reached and the money — 
amounting to about 4000 thalers — secured. This 
done, Schwarzberg concluded to spend a few days in 
the city among some of his friends who still re- 
mained there. 

Now, it so happened that after Diefenbach left the 
count Rosenfeldt, he and his two associates, Hauf- 
mann and Welcker, held a conference in which they 
resolved to continue their pursuit after the baron. 
Knowing, as Diefenbach did, that he had interests at 
Magdeburg, which were usually attended to at about 
this period, he deemed it not impossible that the 
baron had gone thither. They, therefore, turned 
their faces in the same direction and sped away. 

Arriving at the estate of the baroness, they learned 
of the baron’s departure for the city, and, also, of 
the collections he had made. Thither they followed 
him ; but as he had started from Nassau two days in 
advance of them and had lost but little of that 
advantage in his stoppage at the estate, Diefenbach 


FOUND AND LOST. 


371 


feared that he had already left the city, and might 
elude them after all. Nevertheless, they went there, 
and quietly made inquiries of some of his friends, 
concerning him. To their gratification, they learned 
that he was still there, though their best efforts failed 
to bring them in contact with him prior to his 
departure. But, on finding that his destination was 
Cologne, they had strong hopes of overtaking him 
before he had traversed many miles. 

It was mid-forenoon when the party left Magde- 
burg. But, as they rode rapidly, a long distance had 
been left behind when the sun reached the meridian. 
The highway now entered a somewhat dense forest at 
the foot of a lengthy though not steep inclination, 
which they had just descended. Here, as no hostelry 
was at hand, they decided to rest their steeds and 
partake of refreshments, which they were always 
careful to have with them. Satisfied that Schwarz- 
berg had not increased the distance between himself 
and them, and that he also would be obliged to halt, 
at least for his horse’s sake, they were in no hurry to 
renew their journey. This delay proved to be an 
auspicious one. The baron, on leaving the city had 
adopted a more leisurely gait than his pursuers had 
done, and, besides, had stopped not many miles out, 
at an inn, where he spent quite a long time, during 
which Wolfgang and his associates, unobserved by him, 
passed the place. They had withdrawn behind some 
underbrush a short distance from the road, and were 
on the point of returning to their saddles, when 
sounds of a horse’s hoofs reached their ears. Wolf- 


372 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

gang, cautiously moved nearer the roadside and 
waited, under cover, to see who was approaching. 
He was not a little surprised to find that it was the 
baron. His first impulse was to accost him on the 
instant. But, noticing the moderate pace at which 
Schwarzberg was going, he allowed him to proceed, 
conscious that in a very few minutes he could over- 
take him and thenceforward control his movements. 
On rejoining his companions, he made known his dis- 
covery ; and, after requesting them to keep at a dis- 
tance behind him, mounted to his saddle and pushed 
his way just within the edge of the wood until only 
several rods separated him from his object. Then, 
at a bound or two, he reached the center of the road, 
and before Schwarzberg was aware of the approach 
of any one, drew up at his side and saluted him in 
the most affable manner possible. That the baron was 
both surprised and displeased at the intrusion, was 
amply evidenced by the startled and clouded appear- 
ance of his features. For a brief space he scanned 
Wolfgang’s face with unaltered look, and then, as if 
suddenly mov,ed by the thought that to be courteous 
would be his best policy, his countenance brightened, 
and he replied : 

Marry, seignior Diefenbach, as well might I have 
expected to meet the ghost of Peter the Hermit in 
these parts as to behold you here.” 

warrant you, worthy Schwarzberg, that the 
ghost of Peter was better informed concerning your 
whereabouts than was I a half hour agone,” said 
Wolfgang. 


FOUND AND LOST. 


in 


That may be so, in very sooth, seignior. Yet I 
mind me that you do not so far forget your friends as 
to be entirely ignorant of their movements at any 
time.” 

modestly accept the compliment so affably 
bestowed, as I opine, seignior ; but assure you that a 
mere chance revealed to me the fact that you were, or 
had been, in this section. I had a business errand 
at Magdeburg, and on my way thither, called at your 
estate near the city for refreshments, when I learned 
that you had but recently been there for the purpose 
of making collections, as is your wont. That you 
were in Germany, I had been informed by your 
vassals at Antwerp.” 

/‘What ! were you there also ? ” asked Schwarzberg, 
in an unguarded tone, from which Wolfgang inferred 
that his last announcement was an unwelcome one. 
But the baron immediately recovered his equipoise 
and added; “To what kindness must I refer such 
remembrance of me at Antwerp, seignior? ” 

“A mere freak, it may have been; though, truth 
to tell, I could well have made it convenient to request 
another sum of money at your hands, since my 
purse’s mouth seems, at all times, to be on the nether 
side.” 

‘ ‘ Nay, seignior Diefenbach, you have scarcely had 
time to get the last ten thousand thalers I gave you into 
it ; and, verily, that large sum can hardly yet be expend- 
ed,” answered Schwarzberg, in a deprecating way. 

“ Alack ; that you rate me as a most prodigal fool, 
I could avouch, seignior. Hence, it behooves me 


374 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


to venture a word in justification of my lavish dis- 
posal of funds. My conscience is so awkwardly 
framed to the times that the human targets which 
have been broken by misfortune’s darts may not, 
unheeded, cross my path. Then, again, bethink you, 
the Church must be sustained ; and what with the 
price of orisons and benisons, and the huge outlay 
requisite to give tangibility to the genius of Michael 
Angelo and the rest of the human gods of Saint 
Peter’s, to say nought of the multitude of minor 
requirements, one has but a meager chance to retain 
even a few paltry thalers for his stomach’s sake.” 

I grant you that there are many causes for con- 
stant outlay. But for you, pleading such stringency 
of circumstances, the law of self-maintenance should 
be the governing force.” 

^‘Why, you are right, doubtless, seignior. Yet 
must such suggestions apply to the future since it can- 
not to the past, which truth, as you see, still leaves 
me in the lurch and compels a request for further 
beneficence on your part. ’ ’ 

Now, Schwarzberg, almost at the instant of their 
contact, expected, and, of course, dreaded this 
appeal. And, indeed, he had good reason for so 
doing, as Diefenbach never called upon, or met him 
without making a similar one. 

Your request must needs go hungry for this once, 
seignior, since it meets me at such an inopportune 
place,” said the baron, after some hesitation. 
have scarcely sufficient funds at hand to supply my 
own requirements.” 


FOUND AND LOST. 


375 


Faith, the trifle I require is, doubtless, at your 
present disposal,” returned Wolfgang, in a cool, cal- 
culating way that indicated his knowledge of the man 
and the circumstances. 

You revert to the collections recently made, I 
opine, seignior Diefenbach. But I have no claim 
thereto.” 

‘‘So I deem, seignior Schwarzberg. Yet could 
you easily replace any portion of them used immedi- 
ately on your return to the Low Countries. I have 
ample reasons for urging my request.” 

The last assertion, as the baron well understood, 
included a menace which past experience had taught 
him could not be ignored. But these repeated 
demands had become almost intolerable burdens, and 
he queried in his mind whether he might not find 
some method of relief therefrom. 

“ I am obliged to give you a denial in the present 
instance,” he at length ventured, as he scanned Wolf- 
gang’s face to note the effect of his words. But, save 
a slight kindling of the eyes and an almost imper- 
ceptible hardening of the features, no change was 
traceable. His reply, however, was what the baron 
had good reason to expect. 

“ Nay, Schwarzberg, you are not, as I deem, so 
heedless of your own interests as to disregard my 
requirement at this time.” 

“ What sum do you name, in this instance, as the 
price of your leniency? ” came from the baron, in a 
sneering way. He was stung to madness by the reply 
just received ; and determined that these frequent 


376 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


drafts upon his funds should be stopped. This 
matter, he thought, might as well be settled there and 
then. That Diefenbach claimed to know the black 
record of his past life, he, of course, could not over- 
look. But, after all, this claim might only be based 
upon surmises, and he began seriously to doubt that 
it could be substantiated. Besides, he was Wolfgang’s 
equal in physical strength ; was well trained in the 
use of arms, and alone with him on the highway, far 
distant from the abode of either, though he knew 
not if the other regarded any particular place as his 
home. 

I had in mind but a paltry amount,” came Die- 
fenbach’s answer. *‘But, since you deem it more to 
your purpose to treat me with some show of intoler- 
ance, I shall now require a matter of 4000 thalers or 
so.” 

Four thousand thalers ! ” exclaimed Schwarzberg. 

A modest sum, surely. A truce to your brazenry, 
and may further penance never be required of you if 
a particle of the sum named reach your hands from 
me.” 

Why, a poor fool are you indeed to put your 
neck in a noose. The veriest idiot would make better 
use of his brains than that,” said Wolfgang, whose 
visage had now assumed the appearance of a thunder- 
cloud. 

This to me ! ” hissed the baron, between his set 
teeth. “ Blood alone can wash out such dastardly 
affront ! ” and his sword instantly flashed from its 
scabbard. 


FOUND AND LOST. 


377 


** As you please, seignior Schwarzberg,” responded 
Diefenbach. It may be your most sensible method 
of parting with your ill-gotten gains and your breath 
at the same instant ; for, unless I greatly err, your 
sordid soul will speedily join that of the braggart 
Loandez, recently hired to accomplish the purpose 
you now design.” 

The manner of this speech was so unperturbed and 
deliberate as to give the baron the impression that his 
skill at arms was but lightly esteemed by his adver- 
sary. This gave additional fire to his blood, and 
wheeling his horse so as to face Wolfgang, he rose in 
the stirrups, brandished his weapon at arm’s-length 
above his head, and was about to urge it with all his 
strength upon his opponent’s skull. Diefenbach, 
however, was not unmindful of his needs. Schwarz- 
berg’s sword was scarcely lifted, when his own leaped 
forth into the light and caught the descending, brand 
so as not only to divert the stroke from himself, but, 
also, his steed. 

Your purpose was well conceived, worthy seig- 
nior ; but it lacked speed of execution,” came from 
Wolfgang, in a most tantalizing tone. 

<< Wretch ! you have but delayed, not defeated, my 
intent. You were better housed with hungry Russian 
wolves than thus to parade your conceited fancies 
here,” and Schwarzberg, with, if possible, increased 
rage, showered his blows with unremitting energy, 
keeping his oppoftent fully engaged for several minutes 
together. The latter, though he had threatened the 
baron with speedy destruction, still preferred to carry 


378 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


out his former design concerning him. For this rea- 
son, in the struggle just noted, he did nothing but 
attempt to parry the strokes which fell so rapidly on 
every hand, though in the end, through a blunder of 
Schwarzberg, he wounded him in the left arm so 
seriously that the reins fell from his hand. This dis- 
ability Diefeaibach did not instantly perceive. The 
baron, conscious that it would give his antagonist an 
important advantage, since he was unable properly to 
further control his animal, deemed it prudent to with- 
draw from the contest as best he might. But there 
seemed only one way to free himself from both it and 
his opposer, and that was to cripple the latter’s steed. 
Suiting the action to the thought, he executed a 
movement totally unexpected by Wolfgang, who knew 
that no one in an honorable struggle at arms, would 
attempt it. Crowding all his strength into a lateral 
swing,, the baron brought the flat of his brand with 
such force across the eyes of Wolfgang’s steed as 
instantly to deprive them of sight and cause the 
stricken beast to roar and writhe in most excruciating 
pain. This circumstance not only divided Diefen- 
bach’s attention, but also surcharged him with rage. 

“Dastard ! ” he muttered from colorless lips, just 
as Schwarzberg seized his own bridle with his right 
hand, still holding the sword. Then dashing the 
rowels into his horse’s flanks, he sped away. 

His flight was none too soon. Haufmann and 
Welcker, who had drawn near the Scene of the brief 
contest under cover of the trees, and had witnessed 
its progress, noticed the baron’s cowardly stroke, and 


FOUND AND LOST. 


379 


indignant at the act, hastened toward the combat- 
ants. A glance told them that an attempt to over- 
take Schwarzberg, would be futile. They were cor- 
rect. He was mounted upon a powerful charger, 
capable of great endurance, and as fleet as the wind. 

Diefenbach, almost foaming with ire because of the 
escape and the injury sustained by his horse, dis- 
mounted and gazed after the retreating villain with a 
look so fiery that even his companions regarded him 
with awe. Meanwhile, the beast was suffering terribly. 
When, at length, they closely inspected its wound, 
the fact of its blindness became apparent, and, satis- 
fied that recovery was impossible, they dispatched it 
at once to place it out of misery. Thus deprived of 
conveyance, Wolfgang mounted behind Haufmann, 
when they proceeded as rapidly as possible to the next 
town where another horse was obtained. 


CHAPTER XXXI. 


FATHER VOLKMER VISITS LEYDEN. 

W ITHIN a week after Diefenbach left Leyden, 
Rudolph, at the request of Christina and 
her mother, repaired to Antwerp. Of course, he went 
disguised. Their reason for desiring him to make 
this journey was that they might ascertain if the baron 
were there, and if it were prudent for the baroness to 
return thither. The young seignior found but little 
difficulty in gaining the information sought. This 
done, he concluded to surprise and please Christina 
by returning to Leyden with her page, Karl, provided 
he were still at Valenciennes. He, accordingly, 
went to that city. The first thing that deeply impres- 
sed him, after entering it, was the fact that the agita- 
tion which, on his previous visits, was swaying the 
populace, had materially increased. That a conflict 
of authority would speedily occur was apparent from 
all he heard and saw. 

After some careful manceuvering, Karl was found. 
The page donned a disguise; another horse was 
secured, and together they set out for Leyden, arriv- 
ing there two weeks after Rudolph’s departure there- 
from. Christina’s delight in having her faithful Karl 
restored to her, was manifest. Concerning the future 
movements of the baroness, the absence of the baron 
(380) 


FATHER VOLK ME R VISITS LEYDEN. 381 


from Antwerp and the persuasion of her friends 
decided her to remain at Leyden indefinitely. 

A month rolled away. Rudolph, in the meantime, 
had been fortunate enough to have a lengthy inter- 
view with his friend, the prince of Orange, whom he 
incidentally met one day upon the street, and es- 
corted to the house where the baroness and Chris- 
tina were stopping. Of course, the young man had 
a long story to tell, which was heard with marked 
interest by his distinguished auditor. His course 
was fully commended, and he was assured, by the 
prince, of any aid it was in his power to bestow. 
But their conversation also dealt largely with the in- 
terests of Valenciennes, as well as with those of the 
Low Countries generally. William gave evidence 
of deep affliction because of the present and pros- 
pective condition of affairs, and ventured the pre- 
diction that the most cruel war of all time was im- 
minent. When asked what course he himself in- 
tended to pursue in reference to the complications 
that had obtained, he acknowledged himself to be 
in the dark, awaiting the leadings of Providence. 
His intention was to remain for some time longer 
in those provinces in which he held jurisdiction. 

During the latter portion of this lapse of weeks, 
Valenciennes was declared to be in a state of siege, 
and Noircarmes, the commandant of the royal troops, 
began its investment. A few days prior to this 
event, Schwarzberg visited his temporary residence in 
the city ; settled his accounts there ; ordered his ser- 
vants back to Antwerp ; and then took his departure 


382 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


for Brussels, He had been secreted, during most of 
the tinie since his encounter with Diefenbach, in the 
house of a friend in the latter city, which, at that 
period, was the capital of the Netherlands. He now 
regarded Diefenbach as his most implacable enemy. 
And in order to nurse his wounded arm and screen 
himself from contact with him, he had taken the 
course indicated, hoping at some favorable opportun- 
ity to sweep him from his path. As for Volkmer, he 
had not seen nor heard anything of him since the 
night of Christina’s rescue until his own return to 
Valenciennes, when he learned that the monk, as al- 
ready shown, left the city very soon after the rescue. 

Diefenbach and his associates spent a fortnight 
longer in Germany still searching for Schwarzberg. 
To say that their desire to arraign him for his crimes 
was greatly increased by the affray, is but stating the 
truth. Wolfgang was nearly beside himself with in- 
dignation. He had been given the slip, and there 
was no telling where, or how soon, the baron could 
be found. But he resolved to continue his search for 
him in the Netherlands, since no clue could be found 
in Germany. Before doing this, however, ' he re- 
turned to Leyden alone — leaving Haufmann and 
Welcker at Antwerp — -as he had a message for Ru- 
dolph from his father. 

One evening Rudolph was surprised, on respond- 
ing to a rap at his room door, to find the clerk whom 
Welcker had left in charge of his hostelry, with 
father Volkmer at his side. The welcome which the 


FATHER VOLKMER VISITS LEYDEN. 383 

monk received was both expected and appreciated by 
him. 

I could hardly have hoped to meet you at this 
distance from Antwerp, good father ; for, even had 
you known of my presence here, there is no ground 
for my thinking that you would make the journey 
with the design of seeking me. But be assured of 
my pleasure at beholding you.” 

“ Alack, my son, thou hast buried thyself so far 
from my usual lines of travel that I may say it is in- 
deed a chance that we have met thus. For, to speak 
sooth, my main object is to visit the baroness Schwarz- 
berg, of whose presence here I was quite assured, 
since she had not yet returned to Antwerp when I 
departed thence.” 

“Then,’ as I take it, you have already paid your 
respects to her. ’ ’ 

“ Nay, not yet,” said Volkmer, “ as I reached Ley- 
den but an hour ago, and have spent some of the time 
since in discourse with a number of brethren of our 
order. Deeming it too late to call now upon the bar- 
oness, whose address I have, I sought lodgings at this 
inn, when a chance question, on my part, revealed 
the fact, as I so believed, that thou wert domiciled 
here also. And right glad am I to learn that my be- 
lief has proved a verity.” 

“ And that am I, as well, good father.” 

‘ ‘ Hast thou long been at Leyden, seignior Ru- 
dolph?” 

“Much of the time, good father, since our fortu- 
nate rescue of the lady Christina.” 


384 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


And she? Whither didst thou convey her? ” 
Faith; directly, as fast as it was safe to move, 
to the city where we now are. She is the constant 
companion of her mother. 

‘ ‘ Why, that is a benison for which the Virgin may 
be thanked. It will then be my happiness to meet 
her as well as the baroness,” answered the monk, ap- 
parently highly elated at his discovery and prospect. 

And no less hers to meet you, good Volkmer, for 
that I will vouch. But, pray, know you whither the 
baron Schwarzberg has betaken himself? ” 

*‘Such knowledge is utterly beyond my conjecture, 
be assured. I can only divine that he has met with 
misfortune and withdrawn to some remote and unfa- 
miliar retreat in Germany, if his servants can be re- 
lied upon for truth. It may be that the baroness is 
advised of his whereabouts.” 

‘‘That do I doubt, good father,” said Rudolph, 
“ since she has intimated no such thing to me.” 

“ Then must we await his appearance with the best 
grace possible. I surmise that it cannot long be de- 
layed. Indeed, I hope it may not be, as I desire to 
treat with him on a matter of grave importance.” 

“Faith, if it be no more to his advantage than 
were your dealings with him concerning Christina’s 
disposal, he would gain by continued absence,” ob- 
served Rudolph, in an amused way. 

“Of a truth, some one other than himself will 
secure advantage when we again meet, unless some 
unforeseen miscarriage of my purpose interpose. But, 
aside from these surmisings, young seignior, what de- 


FATHER VOLKMER VISITS LEYDEN. 385 


signest thou touching thy future course? Wilt thou 
wed the fair Christina whether or no? ” 

I know not how to answer those inquiries, father 
Volkmer. My wish has been to have some one advise 
me as to my proper course, and I am pleased with the 
opportunity for receiving such advice from yourself, 
if you will deign to bestow it. And if it will aid 
your decision to any extent, you shall knov/ my 
father’s present feelings toward me, which I learned 
from my very good friend seignior Diefenbach, who 
but recently visited him, and also from a message con- 
veyed to me by Diefenbach himself, and which I will 
show you.” 

Rudolph then gave all the information he had re- 
ceived from Wolfgang and produced the message, 
which the monk read with something of an amused 
expression. 

^^Hast thou yet consulted the baroness’ wishes 
touching thy marriage? ” he asked, returning the mis- 
sive. 

“ Nay ; I have been awaiting further developments 
in the hope that she might by them be influenced more 
favorably.” 

Wilt thou permit me to bring the matter to her 
attention?” 

Yes, truly. But, I fear me, she will not venture 
to decide regardless of the baron’s wish.” 

^<Such may indeed be the case,” replied Volkmer. 
**Yet will I give her my best judgment, on hearing 
any objections she may advance. And until I have 
25 


386 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


had discourse with her, it is meet that I offer thee no 
counsel bearing in either direction.” 

Rudolph consented to be governed by such pro- 
ceedings, and, after some further conversation, the 
monk withdrew from the room and arranged for re- 
maining until morning. 

Late in the forenoon of the next day, he and the 
young seignior repaired to the present abode of the 
baroness. Right gladly did both she and Christina 
welcome their father confessor. Months had passed 
since the lady Schwarzberg herself had been thus 
privileged, though, in fact, owing to the heretical 
notions she had gradually imbibed, she would have 
been unprepared to receive him, had not Christina 
appraised her of the monk’s own acknowledged weak- 
ness toward Rome. 

After some time spent with both ladies, Volkmer 
requested the daughter to retire from the room until 
again summoned. Her departure was followed by a 
long, and, to the baroness, especially, very painful in- 
terview. Christina, on her return, found her mother 
in an abstracted mood, and judged from appearances 
that she had been weeping excessively. But at a 
signal from the monk, she retained from any reference 
thereto, though scarcely able to restrain the impulse 
to fly to her arms and seek an explanation concerning 
her condition. 

In a short time thereafter, Volkmer and Rudolph 
left the house. Once more at the hostelry, the young 
seignior again sought the monk’s advice. 

‘‘Wait, my son,” was the kindly reply. “There 


FATHER VOLKMER VISITS LEYDEN. 387 


are events yet to come which must transpire ere the 
baroness will be prepared to have your nuptials take 
place.” 

Volkmer left the city before the day closed. 

From the date of that visit, the lady Schwarzberg was 
a different person. Though neither moroseness nor 
unkindness characterized her demeanor toward any, a 
transition from a most sociable and playful disposition 
to one that courted retirement and the fellowship of 
pensive, not to say sombre thoughts, was strongly ap- 
parent to even her least familiar acquaintances. At 
the first, spasms of grief, almost amounting to hysteria, 
overcame all her efforts to remain calm. These, how- 
ever, gradually diminished, both in force and 
frequency, until, in this regard, she resumed her self- 
control. A full explanation of this wonderful change, 
might go without stating it. Except the fact of Volk- 
mer’ s announcement to Christina that the baron was 
not her father, she had not the slightest clue to guide 
her to a conclusion. But, while she longed to speak 
to her mother respecting the knowledge thus gained, 
an undefinable fear disqualified her from doing so. 
What was to be the outcome of this abiding and con- 
tagious sorrow she, of course, could not foresee, 
though apprehending something even more deplor- 
able. 

Thus perturbed and uninformed, it was not strange 
that father Volkmer filled much of Christina’s 
thought. While not forgetting the aid he had 
furnished to Rudolph in Germany, and to herself at 
Valenciennes, she was keenly conscious that he was 


388 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


the cause, or medium, at least, from whom proceeded 
her mother’s distress. Hence, questions touching his 
real character and ultimate purposes, as these affected 
her family, were repeatedly suggesting themselves. 
What was his real character ? In what other relation 
than that of confessor did he act toward the baroness ? 
Was he, by a display of noble, friendly regard and 
effort, only covering for a limited time, some terrible 
and crushing calamity? Had the incipient blow 
already fallen, to be speedily supplemented by an 
appalling denouement ? Alas, the poor girl had no 
answer to return. She dared not even indulge a 
probability. But these inquiries were not without a 
result. Imperceptibly, an antipathy toward the 
monk had found root in her heart. The first dis- 
covery of this fact sent a shudder through her frame, 
and with a feeling of trepidation she sought to extir- 
pate it as a sickly fantasy. But it remained, and, at 
length, became a fostered and potent influence. For 
a long time its presence was withheld from her 
mother ; but in one of their interviews, after having 
again pleaded vainly for an explanation, she cried 
out: 

** It is all father Volkmer’s work, and I hate him ! ” 

It was the first time that the baroness had ever 
heard Christina make such an assertion respecting any 
one, and so shocked was she that, for the moftient, 
she could not frame a reply. 

‘‘Nay! nay! dearest child,” she at length re- 
sponded, “ say not so. Father Volkmer is the truest 
friend we have on earth ; and you will, some day, so 


FATHER VOLKMER VISITS LEYDEN. 389 

account him. There is apparent cause, I know, for 
some such feeling on your part ; but when the truth 
is fully revealed, you will cherish him, I trow, as 
never before.” 

Think you so, my dearest mother. But why are 
you, through his agency, as I deem, so bereft of all 
that makes living of any worth?” said Christina, 
beseechingly. 

“You must except resignation, at least,” said her 
mother, quickly. ‘ ‘ I will answer you so far as this. 
He has done so to prepare me for that which I other- 
wise would be unable to endure. Seek no further, 
sweet child, but study to fortify yourself for an event 
that will test whatever of strength you possess.” 

With these assurances, Christina desisted from 
further appeals, and gave full sway to her fancies con- 
cerning the ordeal to which her mother referred. 

That the unhappy condition of Christina and her 
mother sensibly affected Rudolph, who was an almost 
daily visitor, may be readily conceived. He was 
even more in the dark regarding its cause than was 
the young lady herself, since he verily believed her to 
be the baron’s own child. Though he did not di- 
rectly inquire of the baroness respecting her trouble, 
he was not slow to importune Christina, and, of 
course, with no better results than she had obtained. 
Both of them, therefore, wisely concluded to allow 
time to unravel the dark curtain which their best 
endeavors failed to penetrate or push aside. 


CHAPTER XXXII. 


AFFAIRS IN VALENCIENNES AND ANTWERP. 

HE opening of the year 1567 found Valenciennes 



i a beleaguered city indeed. That which at the 
first had been treated as a farce by the Protestant 
portion of its populace, had become to them a mat- 
ter of most serious import. Instead of ridiculing the 
chiefs of the besiegers, they now directed their efforts 
to more important and worthy ends. Notwithstand- 
ing their fortifications were notable for strength, they 
were not entirely impregnable, which even had they 
been, the fact would not of itself destroy the cordon 
by which they were completely environed, or supply 
the necessary provisions to those within, for a pro- 
tracted defense. They w^ere practically isolated 
from the outside world. No person, on pain of death, 
was allowed to aid, or sympathize with them in any 
way. This order did not, however, deter two small 
forces of Huguenots, one numbering about three 
thousand and the other half as many, from muster- 
ing with the intent of raising the siege. But, as they 
were miserably armed, they made a very poor show- 
ing, and were destroyed by Noircarmes in one day, 
early in the year. 

This misfortune induced Brederode to attempt the 
enlistment of an army strong enough to relieve the 


(390) 


VALENCIEAWES AND ANTIVEEP. 391 


city, and, possibly, could certain movements be 
effected, prevent the proposed invasion of the Low- 
Countries by Alva from being effected. But Breder- 
ode was not the person for such a task, even had the 
prospect of success been much more flattering than it 
was. He lacked the qualities of deliberation ; tact 
in organizing ; and a proper conception of the mag- 
nitude of the work in hand. His purpose was to 
create a diversion that would compel the withdrawal 
of the loyalists from about the city to other points 
needing defence. But his progress in the undertak- 
ing was slow. After having raised a considerable 
force in some of the southern provinces, he repaired 
to those at the north for additional troops, leaving the 
force already raised in charge of his principal officer, 
Thoulouse. Brederode now made his boasts that this 
person and himself would soon free Valenciennes of 
its beleaguering foes. The regent, Margaret, feared 
that this might indeed be done. But the first import- 
ant movement Thoulouse made, which was to the 
vicinity of Antwerp, was met by the commander, 
named De Beauvoir, of the regent’s body-guard, with 
eight hundred men, who speedily overthrew the in- 
surgents, while, ‘ * Their noble young leader was lit- 
erally cut to pieces.” “The battle,” it is said, 

* ‘ was in full sight of Antwerp, whose walls and roofs 
were that morning thronged with spectators who felt 
the most intense interest in the result. Multitudes of 
Calvinists — for to this sect belonged the greater part 
of the forty thousand Protestants in Antwerp — looked 
down upon the fatal field where their brethren were 


392 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


being cut to pieces, or driven into the Scheldt. A 
few hundreds had taken refuge in a farm-house, but 
De Beauvoir had it set on fire, and they were all 
either burned alive, or shot in trying to escape.” 

Such was the sanguinary ending of the first effort 
under the authority of Brederode. But this was not 
the only result. Antwerp was at once subjected, in a 
great degree, to mob violence. The Protestant sym- 
pathizers with the slaughtered insurgents, seemed 
utterly crazed by the terrible issue. They demanded 
that the gates, which were locked, should be opened 
at once so that they might go forth to avenge their 
compatriots. It was an appalling excitement that had 
obtained. How it would eventuate, no one could 
prognosticate. But there was one man capable of 
subduing these mad billows of human passion. This 
was William the Silent. He had returned to the city 
at the opportune moment ; and, now, as the immense 
throng surged about the gate, he rode among them 
almost alone, and in friendly but firm language in- 
formed them that they could not be allowed thus to 
hurry themselves into certain destruction. At length, 
after the prince had clearly indicated the foolhardi- 
ness of their design, all but about five hundred re- 
tired. These last persisted in their demands, and, 
after being duly warned of their folly, they were per- 
mitted to pass out. But their going was the signal 
for the execution of three hundred prisoners still left 
in De Beauvoir’s hands, the last vestige of Thou- 
louse’s army. 

But the tumult had only been temporarily abated. 


VALENCIENNES AND ANTWERP. 393 


The brands whose flames William had subdued by 
his gentle words, had only been smothered, and, in a 
short time, were again burning with a fury which 
threatened incalculable damage to the property and 
the persons of the Catholics. William, however, aided 
by Hoogstraaten, was equal to this emergency also, 
though the present state of things, necessitated dif- 
ferent methods in dealing therewith. Wise strategy, 
mingled with diplomacy, was successfully employed. 
As an instance of this, the Lutherans and Calvinists 
were adroitly set at variance ; and the former, who 
were the more reasonable of the two bodies, and the 
one with which William himself was now classed, 
was selected as the proper one to deal with. There 
were now three distinct divisions of religionists within 
the city at issue with each other. The prince still 
moved among the malcontents at the risk of his life. 
But his discretion, at length, fully triumphed; and, in 
the end, he had the satisfaction of feeling that he had 
again served his king to the utmost of his ability in 
the light of conscience, even though his own life 
should at last be required as a recompense for his 
services. To show how little of gratitude he might 
expect, the regent herself almost immediately 
expressed her disapproval of the course he had pur- 
sued, because, as a matter of necessity, he had made 
one or two concessions, on a religious basis, to the 
Lutherans and Calvinists. 

Meantime the work of reducing Valenciennes was 
progressing. The imprisoned populace held out 
bravely for many weeks together. Through the 


394 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


influence of their common misfortunes, whose foun- 
tain was the Romish Church, “ Nearly all the inhabi- 
tants had embraced the Reformed faith.” Thus, 
with their sympathies even more closely cemented 
than at first, they hoped, by sheer persistence, to 
weary out the besiegers and compel them to withdraw. 
But after their refusal to comply with an overture of 
the regent, to the effect that all should be forgiven if 
they would open their gates and discard all religious 
tenets save those of Rome, the terrible bombardment 
commenced, shattering the churches, destroying 
dwellings, and killing many of the people. This 
unnerved them. And when two or three incidents 
transpired which appealed directly to their supersti- 
tious fears, they became thoroughly demoralized, and 
in less than two days, surrendered the city. 

Noircarmes had promised that life and property 
should be respected. But after the entrance of the 
troops, he seemed to have forgotten his pledge. ‘ ‘ His 
troops were quartered upon private families, where 
they plundered and murdered with little restraint. 
The wealthiest citizens were arrested at once, and a 

vast amount of property confiscated The 

city was forced to surrender all its ancient privileges 
and immunities, and to pay a heavy fine for the 
expenses of the siege. The two principal Huguenot 
divines. La Grange and De Bray, were publicly 
executed ; and more than thirty other leaders of the 
Protestant sects were put to death. Hundreds of 
citizens were strangled or beheaded. The Calvinists 
seem to have been either burned alive or hung. For 


VALENCIENNES AND ANTWERP. 395 


two whole years/ says a Catholic historian residing in 
Valenciennes at the time, from whose manuscript 
Motley often quotes, ‘ there was scarcely a week in 
which several citizens were not executed, and often a 
great number were despatched at a time.’ ” 

But attention must be centered in the leading char- 
acters of this narrative. The news of the uprising of 
the Protestants in Antwerp on the occasion of Thou- 
louse’s overthrow, rapidly extended to contiguous 
cities, reaching Brussels among the first. Schwarz- 
berg was still there. The principal object for which 
he had repaired thither, the restoration of his injured 
arm, had long since been effected ; but another very 
important consideration caused him subsequently to 
remain where he was. 

The baron, from hating Diefenbach had now better 
cause than ever to fear him. Prior to their encounter 
in Germany, he believed that whatever Diefenbach 
knew of his past life, would not be divulged so long 
as he was willing to pay him the sums demanded from 
time to time. But his mistake in crossing swords 
with him and the cowardly method he employed to 
secure his escape, had, he felt assured, destroyed even 
that protection. No boon that Schwarzberg could 
confer, could turn Wolfgang from his purpose to bring 
him to justice. 

The baron, therefore, during all these weeks, had 
kept himself closely housed at Brussels, never ventur- 
ing forth save in the most quiet and stealthy way. He 
had, indeed, gone as far as Valenciennes, but the 
journey had been accomplished with as great secrecy 


396 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 

as possible, and in much fear and trembling lest he 
should meet the man he was so anxious to avoid. So 
careful had he been to screen his hiding place from 
discovery that not even his most trusted servants at 
Antwerp had been let into the secret. Hence, Volk- 
mer, whom he would have been glad to meet, was 
unable to trace him through inquiries made at his 
Antwerp home. 

But when the excitement, above noticed, stirred 
that city, Schwarzberg felt constrained, on hearing 
of it, to hasten thither in order, if need were, to 
defend his property, and carry away his secreted 
treasures. Accordingly, he set out amply wrapped in 
a heavy cloak and a huge sash that he wore partly as 
a protection against the wintry frost, and partly as a 
disguise for his face, which it almost literally covered. 
He reached his destination, as he designed doing, 
just as the night had fairly set in. Entering his house 
by a side passage, he ordered the first servant he met 
to furnish him with a light. On receiving it, he pro- 
ceeded to his own private apartment and from a 
secretaire it contained drew a small package of .closely 
written vellum. Having scanned this for a few 
moments, he made a circuit of the room, and bolted 
each door opening into it. Then pushing one end of 
the secretaire around, and inserting a slender bit of 
iron in a small hole thus exposed in the partition wall, 
he pressed his hand against the lateral edge of a 
panel. This yielded to the pressure and afforded an 
opening through which he instantly disappeared into 
a narrow passage-way, closing the panel behind him. 


VALENCIENNES AND ANTIVEEP. 397 

Ten minutes had scarcely elapsed after he entered 
the house when father Volkmer presented himself at 
the front entrance. His summons was answered by 
a servant who at the first declared that the baron was 
not there. This the man supposed was the truth. 
Volkmer, however, assured him that he knew better, 
and directed him to announce his presence, when he 
was shown into the reception hall. There he was 
obliged to wait for nearly a half hour without seeing 
anyone. A page at length entered the apartment 
with the direction that he should follow him. In a 
few seconds the monk was shown into the baron’s 
room where he was welcomed with all the latter’s 
aforetime courtesy. 

Verily, good father,” said he, “I should deem 
your coming hither at this time a most fortunate 
chance, but that my servant advised me that you 
were certain of my being here. Whence received 
you such knowledge ? ” 

It is a plain case, truly, worthy seignior,” said 
Volkmer. I have had a lad watching for thee 
during the past fortnight or more. But I pr’ythee, 
noble baron, inform me why thou hast thus held thy- 
self aloof from thy friends? ” 

Alack, to you, good Volkmer, this should not 
seem a mystery, since my daughter’s disappearance 
near Valenciennes is so well known to you. As you 
could readily suppose^ I have been seeking her far 
and wide.” 

** What ! Meanest thou that she has not yet been 


398 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


found?” and the monk regarded the baron with a 
look indicative of great surprise. 

“ She has not, truly. And, save during the first 
three days, not the slightest clue of her has awarded 
my efforts. ’ ’ 

In good sooth, it is a most graceless mischance, 
worthy baron, that one whom thou hast so tenderly 
reared should so wantonly defeat thy holy purposes 
concerning her, and fly to her foes rather than 
claim thy protection. Yet it is my privilege to 
assure thee that I have been more successful in 
tracing the course of her flight than hast thou.” 

“ Am I to understand by that, good Volkmer, that 
you have discovered her whereabouts? ” came from 
Schwarzberg, eagerly. 

As certainly as that thou hast made such inquiry,” 
replied the monk. 

Where found you her?” 

“ With the baroness Schwarzberg, at Leyden.” 

“ Can this be so!” was the baron’s questioning 
exclamation, made in an undertone. 

“Nay, thou canst not at this stage of our intimacy, 
question my veracity, noble seignior.” 

“Be assured I do not, good father. But I had 
scarcely suspected it possible that she had gone 
thither.” 

“ Not only is she at Leyden, but the young seignior 
Rudolph is also there, though he abides at an hos- 
telry.” 

“The wretch! He shall pay for his temerity,” 
said the baron, angrily. “As for Christina, some 


VALENCIENNES AND ANTIVEEP. 399 

means must be devised for replacing her under my 
control. I could myself go to Leyden and com- 
mand her return, but such a course might savor of too 
much harshness and beget a spirit of resistance 
which would render the transfer more difficult, to 
say the least. Can you suggest a better way, worthy 
father? ” 

“ Give thyself no trouble on that score, seignior. 
At the proper time, I can easily influence her as 
thou wilt. It is better that she be out of Antwerp 
than in it during the phrensy of these unreasonable 
heretics.” 

Nay, it was not my intent to bring her hither.” 

‘^Then whither wouldst thou take her?” asked 
Volkmer, quickly. 

To Germany, forthwith.” 

‘‘Then if thou wilt remain here for a matter of 
eight or ten days, Christina shall be produced in 
this very room.” A singular expression mantled the 
monk’s face as he uttered this assurance. Schwarz- 
berg, however, failed to regard it as indicative of a 
sinister intent. 

“Nay, good Volkmer, I have most excellent rea- 
sons for not remaining in Antwerp longer at pres- 
ent. I am now here for the single purpose of se- 
curing such valuables as can be readily borne away 
from the ravages of these fiery Protestants, and shall 
leave as rapidly as I came within the next half 
hour, or less.” 

“Then where wouldst thou that Christina should 
be conveyed, worthy seignior ? ’ ’ 


400 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


‘‘I can scarcely answer that at this present.” 

‘‘Thou shalt have time enough. I will convey 
her hither, and then await thy decision concerning 
her further disposition.” 

“You have hitherto been a most judicious monitor, 
holy father, and this counsel still reveals your wis- 
dom,” replied Schwarzberg, with evident satisfac- 
tion. 

“ Faith, I trust that those whom it will most affect 
will so deem it at the last.” Another singular look 
accompanied this utterance. “And now, noble 
seignior, since thou art wisely securing thy treasures, 
I will inquire if thou hast availed thyself of that por- 
tion of the Church’s money concerning which we had 
some discourse at Valenciennes?” 

“Yes, truly. I bear that much of it hence, which 
I shall appropriate to my own uses.” 

“Thou doest well thus to recompense thy own loy- 
alty.” 

“Nay, but you yourself must accept some share 
thereof.” 

‘ ‘ Not a thaler, worthy Schwarzberg. Little need 
have I of worldly pelf. As for thee, thou canst so 
distribute it as greatly to enhance its value. But I 
must away now. We shall have further discourse 
anon touching the disposal of the fair Christina. 
Where canst thou then be found ? ” 

“A message left at the hostelry at Brussels 

will reach me. Let your movements, good father, be 
as dextrous as possible.” 

After a few additional words, the monk was shown 


VALENCIENNES AND ANTWERP, 401 


out. Fifteen minutes later, the baron made his way 
to the street through the side passage he had used on 
entering. But he had scarcely passed the gateway, 
when he was accosted by two persons who, in a very 
bland manner informed him that he was their prisoner 
by authority of the Church, and must submit to their 
directions. 


CHAPTER XXXIIL 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 

HE baron Schwarzberg was in custody ; but at 



i whose instigation, primarily, he was unable to 
determine. Diefenbach was indeed thought of. Yet 
he could not conceive that the Church would recog- 
nize a charge from an avowed enemy against one 
whose fealty thereto had been so applauded as his in 
the past. As for Volkmer, his complicity was not sus- 
pected, notwithstanding the baron had an inkling of 
the nature of the accusation. But he must be left to 
his own reflections, as space will not now admit of 
their being analyzed. 

When the excitement which shook Antwerp from 
center to circumference had been quelled, a solemn 
ecclesiastical tribunal was instituted to dispose of the 
charge. As Schwarzberg had hitherto been accounted 
a most loyal son of the Church, its dignitaries, at the 
start, were prejudiced in his favor, thinking that the 
matter was the result of misconception. 

It is needless to say that Volkmer was the accusing 
party, and that the accusation was for purloining the 
funds of the Church. But the scheme he had devised 
and was now operating was based upon considerations 
relating to the past. 

Having secured the baron’s person, he set himself 


(402) 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 403 

at work in arranging his facts for presentation at the 
trial, and in getting his witnesses within convenient 
distances. This last he found some difficulty in doing, 
as the brethren at Valenciennes who had secretly 
listened to the conversation had between him and the 
baron in the monastery, were forcibly confined within 
the walls of the besieged city. But even this formidable 
obstacle was overcome by .careful engineering through 
the consent of Noircarmes, the chief of the besieging 
forces. The three Benedictines were, at length, well 
housed at Antwerp prepared to perform their part. 

Though Volkmer knew that he would, at the first, 
have serious difficulties to contend with, he was 
sanguine that his revelations, backed by irrefutable 
testimony, would fully accomplish his design. And 
while the methods he had used for effecting it are not, 
in many respects, to be commended, nor, indeed, are 
they justifiable ; he, nevertheless, could have referred 
to numberless examples of like character, within the 
pale of the Church, as his criterion. 

At length, with everything in readiness, the pro- 
ceedings were commenced. The formalities attend- 
ing the opening of the case being passed, Volkmer 
was called upon to state his reasons for the accusation 
and substantiate them as best he might. Schwarzberg 
had but a short time previously learned that this 
action had been brought by his quondam father con- 
fessor ; and, naturally, his first emotion was one of 
great trepidation, but his second thought led him to 
believe that there was no proof of his guilt available, 
since no one was privy to the understanding had be- 


404 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


tween Volkmer and himself. A simple negation, 
therefore, would meet all his necessities. But he had 
not been behind the scenes. 

When the above command was given, Volkmer 
stepped promptly forth to the middle of the highball, 
and after a sweeping glance at the large number of 
ecclesiastics, composed of various official grades and 
orders of the Church, he fixed his eyes upon the 
tribunes, essayed to straighten his bent form as much 
as he seemed able to do, and then said : 

<‘Most worthy, grave and reverend fathers, well 
assured am I of the solemn nature of these proceedings, 
and, also, of the exceedingly important position I sus- 
tain in reference thereto. To charge one who, be- 
cause of apparent loyalty to ‘ Holy Mother Church ’ 
in all her interests, has imbedded himself deeply in 
her affections and confidence, is, forsooth, a most 
serious undertaking; and very sensible am I that 
nought but unquestionable evidence can convince you 
that the accused now stands here a willful and woeful 
offender against Our Lady. Hence, if it please your 
holy and august body, I crave permission to refer to 
several events of moment, long agone, and which, 
necessarily, include much of my own history. 

first saw the light on the banks of the river 
Elbe, not far from the city of Magdeburg. My parents 
were each of noble extraction, both descendants of 
long lines of feudal lords. Myself and a brother, 
three years my senior, were their only offspring. We 
grew up side by side, knit together by the closest 
affection, and were trained in the most rigid tenets 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 405 


and polity of ‘ Mother Church. ’ At an early age, in 
harmony with my desires, I was designated for holy 
orders, and my future studies embraced all the 
essentials to such a calling. This course led me, in 
my fifteenth year, to Spain to complete my education. 
With my object accomplished, I visited Portugal, 
where my interest in East Indian affairs became 
greatly aroused, and, what with appeals on the part of 
others, and my own desires, also, I yielded consent to 
spend an indefinite season in that far off land as a 
secretary, in the belief that some services of mine 
might there be of value to the Church. My stay was 
prolonged far beyond my first design; indeed, not 
until five years agone did I return to my native place. 
Pending my absence, I had learned scarcely any- 
thing touching my family and friends, Deeply, 
therefore, was I surprised and pained to find that my 
father and mother had both died during the early 
stage of my absence ; that my brother had married a 
wealthy heiress, who, after giving birth to a child, 
found herself suddenly bereaved of her husband by 
means most foul and terrible ; and that she had 
effected a second union with one to whom my brother 
had been deeply attached. 

The first throes of my sorrow spent, I determined 
to acquaint myself with the facts attending my 
brother’s demise, and to this end did I labor inces- 
santly for an entire year. My close application was 
rewarded, in a large degree, though something short 
of my fullest desire. A knowledge of his murderer I 
indeed gained ; but sufficient proof of the crime was 


405 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


lacking. This, however, since it was not beyond the 
possibility of securing, I was resolved to seek out ; 
and, partly, with such object in view, and, partly, to 
fulfill my early intention touching the Church, I be- 
took myself to the order of St. Benedict. Yet might 
I not bury myself in holy seclusion from the world, 
for my double purpose compelled a ceaseless warfare 
in my mind concerning the matter of duty, and I was, 
perforce, led to wander abroad in search of my 
brother’s murderer and the full proofs of his crime. 
Difficult, indeed, was my task, reverend fathers ; yet 
recompense was not denied me. 

‘*My brother, on the death of my mother, who 
was the last of our parents to die, received the estate 
near Magdeburg, and an immense sum of money, 
while I inherited a sum equal to both these consider- 
ations, which he was to hold in trust until my return, 
or for a score and a half of years, when, should I not 
appear, it would revert to him and his heirs. With 
the estate he, also, being the elder son, received my 
father’s title of count, to which, on my return, as he 
had left no male descendant, I had a just right, and, 
therefore, assumed it. 

My brother remained on the estate while he 
lived. His wife, though abundant in resources, and 
with the near prospect of receiving additional vast 
possessions, afterwards continued there. Nor did 
she remove thence until several years subsequent to 
her second marriage.” 

<‘Nay, father Volkmer,” said the chief prelate, 
<‘such exactness respecting thy family interests seems 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 40/ 


not needful to the matter now at issue before us. 
Except thou canst furnish something more direct and 
effective than such annals, we do but misuse most 
valuable time.” 

“ I pray your forbearance, most wise and reverend 
fathers. Well aware am I that these statements seem, 
as yet, of but little relative importance to the case ; 
yet shall you judge, from further showings, whether 
they be essential, or not.” 

‘^Thou art permitted to proceed,” was answered, 
after a brief consultation between those on the bench. 

“ My heart’s thanks are due for such grant of priv- 
ilege, most reverend fathers,” replied Volkmer, bow- 
ing his bent form much lower than was its wont. 
‘ ‘ And I pray you that, as my story shall unravel, you 
will note the prisoner’s visage as it may suggest his 
innocence or guilt. 

From Magdeburg, my brother’s widow and 
child, with her husband, proceeded to an estate of 
hers near Eisenach, upon which they settled as their 
permanent home. Thither, with much difficulty, did 
I trace them, habited according to the custom of our 
order. By degrees did I insinuate myself into their 
favor, and, after remaining some months at Eisenach, 
was chosen by them as their father confessor. Using 
this advantage, I plied my wits to gain what further 
knowledge I could concerning my brother’s decease 
and my own rights without revealing my identity. 
Touching him, I could secure nothing new. Both 
assured me that he was foully dealt with, but pointed 
to no one as the real culprit. As for my claims, it 


408 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT, 


was asserted that direct intelligence of my death had 
been received by them, and that my patrimony had 
been duly transferred to their hands. Close ques- 
tioning of the lady, however, elicited the fact that 
she knew nothing of the matter save what she had 
received from her husband. 

Foiled in a great degree in my efforts thus to 
gain information, I assumed a character in the hope 
of securing better success. In my holy calling as a 
Benedictine, I had, indeed, adopted something of an 
unnatural appearance and address ; but my last ruse, 
while restoring me somewhat to my legitimate func- 
tions, was sufficient to shield my identity in a role 
far removed from that of a Churchman. 

‘‘ Thus guarded, I boldly sought and obtained an 
interview with the alleged man of blood. Therein 
did I unsparingly accuse him of the foul crime, coup- 
ling it with the double incentive thereto — his desire 
for my brother’s wife, and for a large amount of 
Church funds in his care, which his most avaricious 
spirit coveted. . My method wrought effectually; for, 
though at the first, ray announcement was met by 
denial, he soon satisfied me of his guilt, and implored 
me to keep it a dead secret, accompanying the peti- 
tion with an offer of a large sum for my so doing. 
Under other circumstances I would have spurned this 
bribe. But being still without what I deemed suffi- 
cient proof, and since the amount he proffered, was 
but an insignificant fraction of what I had been dis- 
possessed, I accepted it. But mark you the prisoner, 
reverend fathers ! Mark you the prisoner ! ” 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 409 


All eyes turned to Schwarzberg. He was trembling 
like an aspen. The color had fled from his face, and 
his respirations appeared difficult and hurried. Volk- 
mer’s reference, made with arms extended toward 
him, and in most startling tones, had the effect 
greatly to increase his agitation. But the fact that 
he was the center of regard, prompted him to an 
exercise of his will power which soon enabled him, 
for the most part, to regain his equipoise. 

With the subsidence of the baron’s perturbation 
and the curiosity thereby awakened, Volkmer, know- 
ing that the thrilling incident was greatly to his ad- 
vantage, resumed his story. 

“ Deeming it possible that I might never secure my 
rights in a strictly legal way, I have on several occa- 
sions, subsequent to the one just reverted to, applied 
to the alleged criminal for funds, receiving, save in 
the last instance, whatever sum I desired, albeit it 
was sometimes needful for me to revert to my posses- 
sion of the dread secret, in order to gain what I 
sought for. 

** But the sufficient proof of the crime was, at 
length, found. Some two or three months agone, one 
who had been duped into the fiendish plot to destroy 
my brother’s life, was discovered, and awaits, with 
other important witnesses, the commands of this 
august body. 

Yet, with all the knowledge I have acquired of 
this crime and the criminal, most reverend fathers, I 
have had mistrustful feelings that some, more recent 
misdemeanor on his part might be needful fully to 


410 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


convince you of his criminality. Taking, therefore, 
my cue from his former villainous purloining of the 
Church’s funds, and learning, as his father confessor 
— which I have all along continued to be — that he 
held moneys in trust for the Church, I suggested to 
him the idea of appropriating a portion of them to 
his own use. In doing this, I made what I was 
pleased to denominate his unflinching loyalty to 
Rome, the basis of my argument, well convinced that 
his avarice would constrain him to enter the net. 
This he did, with an avidity that caused even me to 
marvel. Such a deed would no loyal Catholic have 
consented to, had his holiness himself sought to 
entrap him. It is upon it that I have founded my 
accusation. And I do beseech you, most reverend 
fathers, bid the baron Schwarzberg affirm or deny the 
truthfulness thereof.” 

<‘How sayest thou, seignior Schwarzberg, speaks 
thy accuser truthfully or not? ” asked the chief pre- 
late, turning to the baron, who again became the 
center of all eyes. 

It is a false charge, most reverend and holy 
fathers,” replied Schwarzberg, in a trembling tone. 

My life, from childhood to the present moment, 
will attest my fealty to ^ Mother Church ’ and my jealous 
regard for her rights. I demand the proof for which 
this treacherous angel-garbed fiend avouches.” 

In making this demand, Schwarzberg, as seen, little 
thought that the monk had other evidence than what 
his own statement furnished touching his recent crime 
against the Church. As regarded his former trans- 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 41 1 


gression, he believed that whoever else might appear 
against him, it would avail nothing, could the last be 
successfully denied. 

Father Volkmer,” said the prelate, thouhearest 
the just requirement of the accused. What canst 
thou offer in return ? ” 

** Much that I opine he will dread to hear, most 
august fathers. And first if it so please you, will I 
present myself.” 

Saying this, the monk stretched himself to his full 
height. His apparent infirmity of body vanished in 
the act, and he stood before the wondering assembly 
a symmetrical form fully six feet in height. Stepping 
to a table, he threw back his habit and drew from an 
interior pocket a flat looking package which he opened, 
and revealed a wig, a long flowing beard, and a 
moustache. Then from another he produced a soft 
hat, capable of being folded to any form without 
injury. A third effort brought to the light two small 
vials, the one partially filled with a colorless liquid, 
and the other with a yellowish mixture of the con- 
sistency of paste. These articles he placed upon the 
table, when he proceeded to remove the habit. This 
done a dark, closely fitting coat was drawn off and 
turned inside out, displaying a variety of colors with 
which at least one person present was familiar. A 
pair of black trousers which closely resembled a gown 
was likewise removed, showing a covering from the 
waist to the ankles of a deep russet color, which 
strangely tallied with the coat. Another draught upon 
the habit brought forth a pair of leggings which, in a 


412 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


few seconds were secured to his lower limbs. Then 
producing a small steel mirror and a bit of cloth, upon 
which latter he poured some of the fluid, he wiped 
away sundry shadowy lines about his eyes, the cor- 
ners of his mouth, and his cheeks and brow. Follow- 
ing this, came an application of a portion of the paste 
to various points of the lining of the moustache and 
beard. These, together with the wig, were speedily 
adjusted to their appropriate places. In another 
minute, he had donned the hat and the coat. After 
returning his vials and mirror to their appropriate 
place in the habit, he wrapped it and the discarded 
trousers in a close package which he covered with a 
cloth taken from his coat and then strapped all with a 
light strip of goatskin to one end of which a buckle 
was attached. 

This transitional process occupied scarcely more 
than five minutes. At its conclusion, Volkmer, as he 
had been known, returned to his former place upon 
the floor, folded his arms across his broad chest, and 
for a few seconds, gazed quietly around the hall. The 
contrast of his present to his first appearance, was 
indeed marked. The sad, sunken eyes ; the hollow 
ridged cheeks ; the deeply furrowed brow ; and the 
drawn mouth, as well as the bent form, were gone. 
The facial effects which had been removed could be 
reproduced at pleasure by the use of a species of paint, 
which, like the paste and liquid, were preparations 
especially compounded for his use. 

Pending his operations, the stillness of death pre- 
vailed in the assembly, but as he again stood forth a 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 413 

buzzing sound of voices was heard on all sides. 
Admiration and surprise was depicted on every face, 
save one. That indicated horror. It was Schwarz- 
berg’s. At length, the accuser’s voice was again 
heard. 

‘‘Most grave and learned fathers,” said he, “to 
thank you for your patience during my wearisome 
recital, would be but a beggarly return for your 
extreme forbearance, yet, save in what way soever I 
have thus assisted justice and the Church, it is all I 
can bestow.” 

The moment he spoke every one noticed the utter 
absence of the whining nasal tone which had char- 
acterized his previous utterances. He continued : 

“You behold me not now as father Volkmer, the 
Benedictine, but as the count of Holzendorf, though 
in a guise somewhat removed from that which suits 
his rank. Yet by a few is it easily recognizable, as 
the baron Schwarzberg, whom I pray you to heed at 
this moment, will aver.” 

All eyes again sought the accused. It was evident 
that the assertion was not an idle one. The baron 
seemed unable to shake off, by his will power, as in 
the previous instance, his present agitation, but gazed 
at his accuser as if he were an apparition rather than 
a living form. 

“As I now appear,” pursued the latter, “I am 
known as the seignior Wolfgang Diefenbach ; though 
for the past three years have I assumed at will my 
present character, or that of Volkmer. And, may I 
be permitted to say, that while acting in the second, I 


414 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


have ever been received by the baron Schwarzberg 
to his heart, in the first, I have been repelled, hated 
and hunted, and my life sought, in one case by his 
dastardly hireling, and in another, but a few weeks 
agone, by himself. But most wise and reverend 
fathers, I trespass upon your kindness, and, if you 
allow, will now give way to whatever evidence of my 
statements you may require.” 

A brief consultation among the dignitaries on the 
bench ensued, when the chief prelate inquired : 

What proof hast thou of the first alleged crimes ? ” 

“I have in waiting two individuals named Ernest 
Haufmann and Hermann Welcker, both former 
habitants of Magdeburg, who aided the baron 
Schwarzberg in destroying my brother — the first of 
whom was his hostler, and the second a boatman on 
the river Elbe. Besides, the lady Schwarzberg is also 
present to avow, if need be, the identity of Herr Hauf- 
mann with the hostler alluded to.” 

** Let Haufmann be summoned before the court,” 
came from the bench. 

The witness at once appeared, and, after due 
preparation, proceeded with his testimony. This 
was, substantially, as follows ; On the afternoon of 
January the loth, 1547, the baron Schwarzberg, then a 
young man, had met him and entrusted to him a 
verbal message for his master, the count of Holzen- 
dorf, in which the count was desired to meet the 
baron at a point on the shore of the river Elbe, a short 
reach from Magdeburg, at nightfall of that day, for 
the purpose of making a visit of an hour’s length to a 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 41 5 


nobleman on the opposite side. The request had been 
duly conveyed to the count, and the hostler com- 
manded to be in readiness to accompany him. At 
the appointed time, the count and himself had re- 
paired to the place designated, where they found the 
baron Schwarzberg, and a flat boat sufficiently large 
to convey them, their horses and the baron’s, and four 
stout rivermen. The three dismounted and entered 
the boat, leading their steeds. When the middle of 
the stream was reached, an altercation, having all the 
appearance of a serious quarrel, had arisen between 
three of the boatmen. Blows followed words. The 
count and the baron, with the remaining boatman, 
interfered to quell the disturbance. During these 
efforts, the count accidentally, as it seemed, fell over- 
board, which mishap had immediately drawn the at- 
tention of all, when, as it appeared, each one made 
all possible exertions to save his life. Three of the 
boatmen, including the one who had had no part in 
the quarrel, and whom the hostler asserted was Herr 
Welcker, leaped into the water and endeavored to 
find the count, who had not yet returned to the sur- 
face. When he did so, they all had seized him, but 
for some reason, unaccounted for at the time, 
Welcker’s comrades, despite his own exertions, thrust 
the count’s head beneath the water and kept it there. 
As a result he was drowned.- All had joined in 
deprecating the sad event, and the boat was at once 
returned to the shore whence it came. 

Prior to, at, and after the funeral obsequies, Welcker 
had observed that the baron was most attentive to the 


4i6 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


countess, revealing what seemed to be the deepest 
sympathy for her, and attending closely to all the 
business involved in the circumstances. Less than a 
fortnight subsequent to the sad rites, the witness had 
chanced to overhear a conversation between Schwarz- 
herg — who now spent most of his time at the castle — 
and the late count’s secretary, in which the disposal of 
a very large amount of Church funds was considered. 
The baron favored its appropriation to their own use ; 
but the other withheld, for a time, his consent to such 
a course. They had, however, finally agreed to 
adopt it. The secretary was to produce the money, 
and so arrange accounts as that they would clearly 
indicate dishonesty on the part of the count, while the 
baron would see to it that the money was so placed 
as to awaken no suspicion on the part of the Church 
officials against either. The scheme was successfully 
carried out, so far as Haufmann had since learned. 

The baroness. Schwarzberg was then called. She 
assured the court that Haufmann had sustained the 
position he claimed to have done in her first husband’s 
establishment ; and, also, that the moneys referred to 
were, at the time, in the count’s charge, and that his 
accounts, after his death, were found as the secretary 
had promised to arrange them. 

Hermann Welcker testified that he had immediately 
suspected the criminality of his three assistants in 
connection with the count’s death ; that he had ac- 
cused one of them accordingly ; that by threats and 
appeals he had so wrought upon him as to extort the 
confession that all three had, for a consideration. 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 41 7 

entered into complicity with Schwarzberg to take the 
count’s life ; that he soon afterwards had an interview 
with Haufmann with whom he was well acquainted, 
with a view to making complaint against the conspir- 
ators ; that he then gained from him a knowledge of 
the plot for purloining the Church funds ; that they 
had concluded, since they neither of them held posi- 
tions of influence, that it would be folly for them to 
undertake to bring the baron Schwarzberg, who was 
of noble blood, and affluent, to justice; and that 
he had a few years later left Magdeburg and had not 
again seen Haufmann until within a very recent date. 

To all this evidence, Schwarzberg listened with 
varied emotions. Yet it did not utterly destroy his 
hope, or his belief, even, that he could save himself 
from conviction. The events alluded to were, in his 
view, so far removed, and the evidence so discon- 
nected, as about to nullify the effects which Diefen- 
bach desired. As to what was to follow touching his 
recent crime, his word would certainly weigh as much 
as his accuser’s — especially since every member of 
the tribunal knew him to be a most zealous Catholic. 
That the accusation could be proven, he would not 
for a moment believe. 

But the baron was soon constrained to change his 
estimate. Within the next hour, the three fathers 
from Valenciennes amply corroborated the charges 
contained in the latter case. While Diefenbach’s 
subsequent declaration that Schwarzberg had assured 
him, as father Volkmer, a few minutes before his ar- 
rest that he then had the stolen money in his posses- 
27 


4i8 RUDOLPH OF ROSENFELDT. 


sion, bound the entire process together, in the esti- 
mation of the court, with bands of iron. 

Schwarzberg was totally overcome for a time. But 
after rallying somewhat, he endeavored to destroy the 
impressions made by denouncing as false all that had 
been said which referred to his criminality, and by 
referring to his loyalty to the Church. But his plea 
was fruitless, and he was removed under guard. The 
court was not long in deciding his fate. He was 
doomed to death, and whatever possessions he held 
in personal right, were, so far as the jurisdiction of 
the Church extended, confiscated. Within a week, 
he was transferred to Peter Titelmann for execution, 
and paid the penalty for his offences at the block. 

Diefenbach, whose heretical, and even irreligious 
views, the baron, in his harangue, sought to render 
evident, was regarded with marked favor by those 
knowing to the case. But being aware of his own 
repugnance to Roman ethics and despotism, he 
deemed it prudent, ere this became known, which he 
was sure would be the case — to repair to a place of 
greater security than Antwerp, or even the entire 
Netherlands could then afford. The baroness 
Schwarzberg, Christina, and Rudolph heartily ap- 
proved of this design; and after an exchange of 
views, they all agreed to return to Germany for a 
number of months. Welcker, by urgent request, 
accompanied Haufmann to Leyden, having previously 
received from Diefenbach a liberal sum to supply his 
needs until they should again meet. 

But little more remains to be said. At the end 


A CHURCH TRIAL AND ITS RESULTS. 419 


of a year, Christina and her mother had fully re- 
nounced the faith of Rome and became avowed Prot- 
estants. This was, indeed, a great addition to 
Rudolph’s cup of happiness, though but the begin- 
ning of that brighter period for which he had hoped 
and prayed, for within the following few months both 
his father and mother, the count and countess of Rosen- 
feldt, took a similar course. Diefenbach, through the 
influence of the baroness Schwarzberg, to whom he 
had become strongly attached, also fully accepted the 
creed of the Reformers. Nothing now interfered to 
delay the nuptials of the long tried and ever faithful 
lovers whose experiences have formed the basis of 
this story, and, in due time they were wedded amid 
all the circumstance that nobility, wealth, hosts of 
friends, and deep love and true Christian graces can 
command. This event was soon followed by the 
marriage of Diefenbach — now known as the count of 
Holzendorf — and the baroness, who almost immedi- 
ately settled upon the large estate near Magdeburg, to 
which reference has several times been made. 

Rudolph and Christina selected Rosenfeldt castle 
as their home, though making frequent visits to their 
greatly beloved relatives on the Elbe. The young 
seignior, in a few years, succeeded to his father’s 
titles and possessions, and afterwards gained consid- 
erable popularity as a brave officer in the Netherland 
struggle for independence, under the unfailing friend 
of his entire life, William the Silent.” 


THE END. 



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